CASA for Children proudly announces Helen Stemmer as the 2025 CASA Volunteer of the Year.

Helen was recognized on April 29 at the nonprofit’s annual Volunteer Appreciation and Awards Banquet with an award presented by Susie Massey, Program Manager for CASA for Children.

“Helen represents everything a CASA volunteer should be,” said Susie Massey. “She is dedicated, dependable, and driven by a sincere sense of purpose and compassion.”

Helen has served as a CASA volunteer for 10 years. In that time, she has advocated for 14 cases on behalf of 20 children.

Because of her attention to detail and her compassionate approach, Helen is frequently requested by staff and other parties on the most complex cases. Helen always puts the children’s best interests at the center of her work, whether advocating for reunification with parents or supporting a path to adoption.

Her husband, Jeff, is also a CASA volunteer, making advocacy a family affair.

In addition to honoring Helen, CASA for Children also recognized the dedication of other CASA volunteers: Melissa Goodman-Nissley, Randy Strickland, Trisha Rutherford, Janice Hughes, Kathy Connell, Debby Keith, Victoria Smith, Kim Williams, Vickie Middleton, Jeff Stemmer, Debbie Long, and Tim Payne.

Special recognition was also given to CASA Volunteer Leslie Hamil and the Youth Volunteer Corps for their continued support of CASA’s mission to serve abused and neglected children.

To learn more about CASA for Children or how to become a CASA volunteer, visit www. casaok.org or call Jenny Crosby at (918) 685-1501.