Five representatives from CASA of Johnson County attended the 2009 National CASA Conference on April 25-28 in Denver, CO.
Through education, training and networking opportunities, attendees discovered new ideas and solutions to aid themselves as they carry out our service to abused and neglected children.
"The National CASA Annual Conference provided a unique opportunity to join leading consultants, legal and social service professionals as well as representatives from the entire CASA network," said Johnson County casework manager, Joyce Petty.
This year's conference was themed Taking Advocacy to a Higher Level. In workshops and general information sessions, and through networking with colleagues and peers from across the country, attendees were given the opportunity to gain skills, knowledge, and inspiration to help take advocacy for children to new heights.
One of the primary draws for the conference were the 2009 guest speakers. As spokespeople for the National CASA Forgotten Children campaign, Dr. Phil and Robin McGraw have publicly professed their commitment to raising awareness of the CASA cause and ultimately ensuring that every abused and neglected child has a CASA volunteer. Together, the couple welcomed attendees, and Robin delivered this year's keynote speech. Along with the McGraw's, attendees welcomed speaker Gloria Burgess. A highly regarded expert in the areas of authentic leadership, diversity and creativity, Burgess brought a fresh perspective to corporations and nonprofits, drawing from her own life experiences.
In addition to the nationally renowned speakers, National CASA was pleased to offer over 70 workshops and networking opportunities-the most ever at any national conference! Four designated workshop tracks were also offered to help conference attendees plan their schedules: Youth Voice, Fostering Connections to Success Act, Fundraising and Cultural Competency.
"What I came away from the CASA National Conference in Denver was the absolute dedication of CASAs to their kids," said Petty. I listened to two different panels of teenagers expressing what their CASAs did for them. They told about the numerous CPS case workers and being in many foster homes but always their CASA would be there for them and advocate for their needs. One told about how her CASA takes her to visit her grandparent's grave twice a year and another told about having the same CASA for eight years and how he trusted him completely. THIS IS WHAT CASA IS ALL ABOUT!"
Mark your calendars now because next year's National CASA Conference is scheduled for April 16-19 in Atlanta, GA.
