On June 11, six new volunteer advocates were officially sworn in by Judge Bridget Cohee at the Jefferson County Courthouse. Please join us in welcoming Robbie Gillette (Jefferson/Berkeley County staff member), Angelina Gray and Crystal Barnhouse (Jefferson County), and Ron Tran, Dianne Keilholtz, and Kim Hartman (Berkeley County). Following the ceremony, CASA-EP celebrated with a reception at Glory Days in Ranson. We are excited to see the impact these advocates will make in the lives of children and families in our community.

CASA-EP was proud to support the 5th annual Youth Leadership Summit. Over the weekend, youth engaged in workshops, team-building activities, and career exploration—all designed to strengthen their confidence, leadership skills, and sense of community. From connecting with local professionals to creating vision boards, it was an inspiring and impactful weekend for everyone involved. A heartfelt thank you to the WV First Foundation and the Highmark West Virginia Charitable Fund for Health for critical funds to cover costs associated with this event!

Read more about this amazing event!

We're proud to announce the launch of CASA Permanency Services (CASA P.S.)—a new post-permanency initiative providing support for families after reunification, guardianship, or adoption. CASA P.S. pairs families with trained coaches to offer trauma-informed care, connect them to essential resources, and advocate for continued stability.



This program will serve Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan Counties, strengthening families and reducing reentry into the system. Special thank you to the Women Investing in Shepherd (WISH) Foundation, which is sponsored through the Shepherd University Foundation, who provided critical start-up funds for the launch of this program.

This month, we’re celebrating one of CASA-EP’s longest-serving volunteers—Pat Machate! With over five years of dedicated advocacy, Pat has remained a consistent, compassionate presence in the lives of the youth she serves. Whether showing up at court or checking in during a tough week, Pat is always there to remind her CASA kids that they’re not alone. She's often joined by her loyal service dog, Hilda, whose gentle nature and warm spirit bring comfort and joy wherever they go. We’re so grateful for Pat’s commitment and heart—and for the extra dose of love Hilda brings along the way.

Did you know that your donation to CASA of the Eastern Panhandle can do twice the good? Through West Virginia’s Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP), your contribution helps provide vital advocacy for children in need—while offering you a substantial state tax credit.

To make a donation and reserve your NIP credit, please visit https://mycasaep.org/donate/ and select "NIP credit" in the campaign dropdown menu, or contact Teri Biebel at teri@mycasaep.org for more information.