NOVEMBER 2021
CASA News
Introducing our new Chief Program Officer, Mika Khan!
If that name rings a bell, it’s because Mika (pictured here with her husband Azeem and fur children Mochi and Oliver) has been part of CASA/LA since 2018, first as an advocate supervisor and then most recently as program manager of our Essential History Program. Mika has extensive experience in the nonprofit sector, working previously both in direct service as a mental health therapist, as well as in more macro positions developing sustainable programs for organizations such as AmeriCorps, Citrus College, and the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Addiction.

Mika holds an MSW and MS in Social Entrepreneurship, both from the University of Southern California, and also has an advanced certification in personal and executive coaching from the College of Executive Coaching. As the proud daughter of Sri Lankan immigrants, she is excited to help CASA to become a leader in social justice through culturally competent, anti-racism practices.

We're so thrilled to welcome Mika into this new role with CASA/LA!
CONTINUING EDUCATION
CASA/LA IN-SERVICE TRAINING

Introduction to the Juvenile Justice System
When: Thursday, December 2 from 12-2 PM
Where: online
RSVP: here

Strengths-Based Advocacy
When: Thursday, December 9 from 12-2 PM
Where: online
RSVP: here

Los Angeles County Office of Education (LACOE): Foster Youth Services Coordinating Program
When: Wednesday, December 15 from 12-1 PM
Where: online
RSVP: here
If you are interested in watching a recording of past in-service training, contact Betsy Ann Mudd. We may have what you are looking for!
Fireside Chat Series - November Edition

On Friday, December 3, join us for a conversation on "Reimagine Child Safety." Must RSVP to attend. New discussions every 1st Friday of the month.
Virtual Early Childhood (EC) Training
 
This training is a unique opportunity to take a deep dive into the topic of early childhood. You will gain an overall understanding of early childhood development and the factors that influence developmental outcomes. The EC training will address how you can use a developmental lens to support and advocate for the unique needs of young children who are in the court and welfare system.
 
The training is six modules; three are self-paced online and three modules are live via Zoom. For the Zoom sessions, you must have a camera and microphone. Class size is limited and prior registration is required. Participation in all six sessions is mandatory. 
 
Module 1: Online reading
Module 2: Zoom (Tuesday, January 11, 2022, 3-6 PM)
Module 3: Online reading
Module 4: Zoom (Tuesday, January 18, 2022, 3-6 PM)
Module 5: Online reading
Module 6: Zoom (Tuesday, January 25, 2022, 3-6 PM)
 
Facilitators: Lauri Halderman, program manager, early childhood; Rosa Arevalo, advocacy team manager; and Ben Miller, advocate supervisor
 
Continuing Education Hours: 12
 
RSVP: Be on the lookout for an email that will be sent mid-Dec.

Questions: Contact Lauri Halderman @ lhalderman@casala.org
CONNECTION
BOOK CLUBS

Coastline Book Group
Where: A CASA's home in Santa Monica*
When: Tuesday, January 25 at 1:30 PM
We're Reading: "Pictures of Hollis Woods" by Patricia Reilly Giff
RSVP: contact Jeanne Irving
*Space is limited to those with completed COVID-19 vaccines.

Want to host a book club? Contact Betsy Ann Mudd.
CASA CONNECTIONS
Opportunities for CASA volunteers to connect with and support each other.

Early Childhood (0~5) TBD
Middle Childhood (6~9) TBD
Tween (10~14) Tuesday, December 7, 6 PM
Transitional Age Youth (15~17) Thursday, December 16, 3 PM
Non-Minor Dependent (18~21) Tuesday, December 14, 5 PM
Events
Holiday Cards
Celebrate the holidays by sending a heartfelt gift in support of children and families in LA County’s child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Together we can help ensure them with equitable access to the resources and support they need to thrive.
For CASA Youth
Shine a Spotlight on your CASA artist!
 
Does your CASA teen have artistic talent and want to go to a two-week arts camp Summer 2022? Get them ready to apply for the CASA Scholarship to 2022 Idyllwild Arts Camp by going online to www.idyllwildarts.org/summer and look specifically for the "TEEN 13-18" two-week options. Our CASA scholarship application forms will be available in January BUZZ newsletter. For the past 10+ years, we've sent 1-3 CASA teens each summer. The deadline for completed CASA applications is 2/18/22. 

Questions? Contact CASA/LA volunteer Eileen Sheiniuk.
Resources for Volunteers
Meet other CASA volunteers virtually for discussion and support. Connections are organized by age of youth served and meet monthly.
Want to get your own CASA/LA swag?
Our CASA Shop will have you looking good and supporting our cause all at once. It's a win win!
You can visit our website for the court report writing handbook and templates. In-service trainings on this topic are held quarterly.
We care about your well-being. All volunteers may access our EAP program for anonymous counseling.
Need help with ETO? No worries, we got you covered. If the Advocate Handbook doesn't have your answer, you can email the ETO helpdesk.
Join our resource forum Muut to search/share resources, communicate with other CASAs, and ask questions. Read these instructions to begin.
Visit Litmos for webinars on transition age youth, early childhood, and more.
Look in your email for an invite from CASA/LA or contact Lynne Gabriel.
Read our volunteer handbook for policies covering everything from conflict of interest and mandatory reporting to boundaries and posting on social media.
CASA of Los Angeles | 323-859-2888 | www.casala.org