27 Peer Coordinators help CASA serve more children

Fourteen years ago, CASA of the Pikes Peak Region launched something we call the Peer Coordinator (PC) model. This model was developed by National CASA and designed to help local programs serve more children without the expense of hiring additional paid staff.

Peer Coordinators (or PCs) are experienced, long-term volunteer advocates who take on a leadership volunteer role to support new trained advocates. They serve as coaches and mentors to new advocates.

Mike McAdams, who first became a CASA advocate 21 years ago, has noticed cases becoming increasingly difficult over time. He believes the PC model is especially important as the world continues to change.

“It allows us to serve more kids with the limited resources CASA has,” he says of the PC role he’s been in since the model’s inception. “I enjoy helping new advocates channel their commitment and enthusiasm as they develop competence and confidence in an area that is totally new to most.”

Nowadays, CASA of the Pikes Peak Region benefits from the dedication of 27 PCs.

“Advocacy is a team sport,” says PC Su-Su Sawyer. “I sub-in when they are unable to join meetings or attend hearings. I jump off the bench to make home/child visits in their stead. I glance at the scoreboard, their written reports, and determine what’s needed for success in court.”

Kinda Asher is a bit newer to the PC role and she believes being a PC enhances her advocacy for her own CASA children.

“Not only do I get to brainstorm and problem-solve with other amazing advocates to assist with the children on their cases, but the things I learn and experience while mentoring newer CASAs benefits my advocacy skills in the long run as well,” Asher says.

Thank you to these amazing Peer Coordinator Partners!

Ann Fallon, Barry Johnson-Fay, Carl Brantley, Chesley Wright, Cheryl Witzman, Chris Levy, Clifford Rakes, Georgie Barnes, Jan Berry, Jessica Jones, Juan Flores, Julie Dismang, Kimberly Schnarrs, Kinda Asher, Layne Hamilton, Mike McAdams, Rebecca Landau, Robin Smith, Sara Lee, Su-Su Sawyer, Tracey Dinnel, Rachel Oullette, Jack Hafflett, Janet Stolowitz, Maryhelen Cabrera, Don Smith, and Margie Roesner