Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers make a profound difference in the lives of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Through their commitment, compassion, and unwavering advocacy, these dedicated individuals ensure that children's voices are heard and their best interests remain at the center of every decision.
Today, we are proud to recognize our 2026 Volunteers of the Year:
GOLD
Debra Fornoff - CASA of the Tenth Judicial Circuit - 724 Volunteer Hours
SILVER
Lex Blankenship - CASA of Rock Island, Henry, and Mercer Counties - 364 Volunteer Hours
Jennifer Drumm - CASA of Lake County - 254 Volunteer Hours
Lynn Kofoid-Durdan - CASA of the Illinois Valley - 315 Volunteer Hours
Erin Lukasiewicz - CASA of McHenry County - 268 Volunteer Hours
BRONZE
Bruce Austin - CASA of East Central Illinois - 120 Volunteer Hours
Katie Hallowell - CASA of DeKalb County - 150 Volunteer Hours
Linda Hinds - CASA of Sangamon County - 139 Volunteer Hours
Gina & Tyler Prevett - CASA of Southwestern Illinois - 157 Volunteer Hours
Susan Wernsman - CASA of West Central Illinois - 104 Volunteer Hours
JoAnne Peterson - CASA of Southern Illinois - 107 Volunteer Hours
Leslie Cox - CASA for Kids - 138 Volunteer Hours
HONORARY
Bob Steffen - CASA of DuPage County - 72 Volunteer Hours
Jeanne Smith - Advocacy Network for Children - 50 Volunteer Hours
Michele Kwiatkowski - CASA of Kane County - 81 Volunteer Hours
Megan Graham - CASA of Kendall County - 54 Volunteer Hours
Clint Hisey - CASA of Southeastern Illinois - 34 Volunteer Hours
Dee Ann Ryan - CASA of Vermilion and Edgar Counties - 54 Volunteer Hours
These outstanding volunteers exemplify the mission of CASA through their dedication to serving children and families, building trusted relationships, and advocating for safe, permanent, and nurturing homes. On behalf of Illinois CASA, our local programs, and the children we serve, we extend our deepest gratitude to these remarkable advocates. Thank you for your service.
