Each of the more than 700 advocate volunteers across the state is a superstar. Here are just a few of the outstanding women and men who have dedicated themselves to being a part of our community working to change a child’s story.
MARGARET CLANCY-DARLING
Voices for Children/CASA of Broome and Tioga Counties
“My best experience as a CASA has been watching my assigned CASA child grow up and thrive in his foster home with his amazing foster moms. I appreciate all the support from the CASA staff and my fellow CASA volunteers.”
With a professional background working extensively with youth, Margaret brings a wealth of experience to her role as a CASA volunteer.
Jessie Galusha, Program Coordinator
SAMANTHA M. CASHMORE
CASA of Chautauqua County
“Samantha is honored to be a voice for children who may otherwise go unheard and is committed to ensuring they feel seen, supported, and valued. Samantha believes every child deserves someone in their corner.”
Samantha has dedicated 11 years to consistent, child‑centered advocacy for children ranging from infancy to young adulthood. Drawing on her background as a special education teacher and her experience navigating complex systems, she has advocated for 9 children, including those with significant mental health needs, demonstrating professionalism, independence, and unwavering commitment to each child’s best interests.
Kathy Park, Executive Director
TERESA CONBOY
CASA of Erie and Niagara Counties
“Nothing has been more rewarding for me personally than having the opportunity to connect one-on-one with these children. Interacting with family members, foster care parents and organizations that can support their needs has strengthened my belief that we must all work together towards the goal of protecting them and providing a positive path forward.”
Teresa has demonstrated exceptional dedication to our program and the children we serve. Her steady commitment, genuine care, and ability to build trust in challenging situations has created a meaningful and lasting impact on the lives of each child she supports.
Trina Clifford, Program Co-Director
BEVERLY HOY
Genesee County CASA for Children
“CASA families showed me that love and goodness exist every day, in ordinary people in this mixed-up world. Love can change lives. Love can change a child’s story. It changed three of my CASA children’s stories. Because love and goodness exist, I will not lose hope for this world.”
Beverly’s impact is felt not only in the outcomes of her cases, but in the trust she builds with the children and families we serve. She shows up consistently, listens deeply, and makes people feel seen and supported during some of the most difficult times in their lives.
Jennifer Metz, Executive Director
TERRY TALBOT
CASA of the Great Lakes Seaway Region
“I wanted to become a CASA volunteer to help those most in need. I value being a CASA because it gives me the chance to make a difference in children’s lives. The best part about being a CASA is results, and seeing that I’ve made a positive impact.”
What truly sets Terry apart is his genuine passion for this work. He doesn’t just fulfill the responsibilities of a volunteer—he embraces the purpose behind it.
Natasha Delaney, Program Coordinator
DARA HILLMAN
CASA of Long Island - Nassau County
“I stood in an auditorium for [my CASA child’s] adoption. This time, the room was full with family and friends surrounding her with love and support. I thought back to that holiday concert when I was the one person there just for her. Once, she needed someone to show up for her. Now, she had a whole family who always would. And I knew she would never again have to wonder if someone would be there for her special moments.”
Dara has demonstrated exceptional commitment, creativity, and compassion across the nine cases she has undertaken, advocating on behalf of a total of 21 children. Her work has encompassed complex and sensitive matters.
Elizabeth Matos, Esq., Case Coordinator
TOM BANEY
CASA of Long Island - Suffolk County
“My CASA youth called me when he was alone in the ER on a Sunday night because his parent had a serious medical episode. I drove over an hour to get there. He was unable to go home alone and had no other relatives to stay with. When I arrived and told him not to worry, he relaxed and was able to fall asleep. I stayed by his side and looked out for him all through the night.”
Tom Baney has been assigned to the same child on his case for many years and has been a steadfast source of support, guidance, kindness, and empathy. When the teen on his case takes an interest in something, Tom finds a way to make it happen. We are honored to be able to work with Tom and commend him for his dedication and commitment to the CASA program.
Bonnie Bryant, Case Coordinator
SHARON HARNETT
CASA of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster Counties - Orange County
“I have a soft spot for children whose lives are turned upside down by circumstances beyond their control. I volunteered for CASA in hopes that I could help families navigate their way to a safe and stable place.”
Sharon is deeply compassionate, consistently demonstrates strong communication with schools and other professionals, and builds meaningful relationships with the families she serves.
Alexa Sullivan, Program Coordinator
EVA McLAUGHLIN
CASA of Orange, Sullivan & Ulster Counties - Sullivan County
“Having the experience as a CASA for the past 20 years has been both rewarding and an extraordinary learning process. Working with the children and their families has taught me about their resilience during all the challenges they may face . Having been able to assist them in small ways during these challenges has been most rewarding.”
Eva has been a dedicated CASA volunteer for nearly 20 years, demonstrating an extraordinary commitment to the program and the children it serves.
Alexa Sullivan, Program Coordinator