patricia “pat” slimmer / IN MEMORIAM
CASA OF ROCHESTER/MONROE COUNTY

Pat Slimmer may have left this world we know for another, but she remains strong in the hearts and souls of the people she knew. Pat has been part of CASA from the beginning. Recently, while battling illness, Pat was donating items for CASA families. Pat has been a volunteer, staff member, assistant director, fund developer, grant writer, supervisor of volunteers and for 19 years the co-chair or chair of the major fundraiser for CASA of Rochester/Monroe. Her mission has been to help create, maintain, sustain and innovate at CASA of Rochester/Monroe County for the last 39 years! 

In fact, Pat started the golf tournament that raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for CASA. Many people are at a loss over asking businesses, individuals and foundations for funding. Pat developed and mastered raising funds at all levels. No business could turn Pat down once she approached them for a gift certificate, item to donate or sponsorship.

In order to be change agents in a court system that prescribes the actions that families need to take for their children who have been abused and neglected, it takes strong advocates willing to face anything. Pat was one of those hard-working, persistent advocates. She successfully worked with different provider systems. Pat developed many long-term relationships with caseworkers on her caseload, some of which continued for over a decade. Those caseworkers came to offer their final respects along with Family Court Judges and now adult CASA kids.

Pat has spent a career making the lives of abused and neglected children much better so that they can grow up in a permanent home and become productive citizens. She has been relentless, driven, consistent, dedicated and creative with solutions. One child paralyzed from being hit by a car was able to move to a foster home once Pat got a business to donate and convert a van. He was able to attend school, live in a family, and be part of family life.

Below are some comments from others:

“This community is diminished with the loss of Pat. She was an inspiration to all of us who knew her. She truly was a ‘Woman of Valor’. May she rest in peace.”

“A true inspiration.”

“A beautiful woman inside and out. She will be truly missed.”

“Pat Slimmer was a bright light in helping families in need. I have represented children for many years in Family Court and always appreciated Pat’s dedication, positive and enthusiastic efforts.”

“I have been working on the CASA golf tournament for at least 12 years. Pat taught me so much about relationships, commitment, leadership and friendship.

Pat has been an inspiration and great friend. She was a tremendous advocate for children through fundraising and as a leader for CASA.”