Melanie has served as a CASA Staff Member for over 12 years, and she works tirelessly to build collaborative relationships that strengthen the CASA program as they continue to grow into new communities and changing environments. Melanie is a problem-solver at heart; she goes above and beyond to connect families/volunteers with the resources they need, she adapts well when conquering new barriers, and she was monumental in developing the CASA Connections Center in Grundy County.

Her nominators from CASA of River Valley captured it best: “Melanie is the heart and soul of CASA of River Valley and exemplifies exactly what a child advocate and community leader should be. She is completely devoted to helping the children and families... while adapting to the ever-changing atmosphere of child welfare."

Thank you, Melanie, for everything you do to amplify the voice of children navigating the child welfare system in your community. Your impact is beyond measure.