As the year comes to a close, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle reflects on both the progress made and the growing needs facing children and families in our community. With more than 800 children moving through abuse and neglect cases, our 70+ CASA volunteers are able to serve only about half of those who need a consistent, trusted advocate.


This year, we also honored the legacy of CASA-EP co-founder Val Smith by establishing the Val Smith Fostering Futures Fund, dedicated to expanding youth programs and supporting teens as they step into adulthood. Her vision continues to guide our mission every day.


As challenges like rising costs, housing instability, and the ongoing effects of substance use deepen across the region, your support has never been more vital. A year-end gift helps ensure more children receive the safety, stability, and hope they deserve.

With heartfelt appreciation for your support and warm wishes for a joyful holiday season,


Michelle Sudduth

Executive Director

CASA of the Eastern Panhandle

Our annual Wrap and Rave was a joyful reminder of the heart behind CASA’s mission. Volunteers, staff, board members, and supporters came together to wrap hundreds of gifts for 145 children living in foster care and non-permanent homes, ensuring children served by CASA have a memorable and meaningful holiday. 

We want to extend a heartfelt thank you to the Eastern Panhandle Bar Association Charitable Foundation for sponsoring the gift drive for a 16th year in a row, Kathy Santa Barbara (Emeritus Board Member) for all her work organizing this event, and of course, we are deeply grateful to all the shoppers, staff, board members, and volunteers who gave their time, energy, and generosity to make this special night possible—your dedication truly brings the spirit of the season to life for the children and families we serve.

Pictured (from Left to Right) Michelle Sudduth, Executive Director, Amy Panzarella, Board, Kim Himes, Board, Sara Cohick, Board, Sarah Pauletti, Director of Programs

As we enter this season of giving, CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is proud to launch our End-of-Year Campaign, a vital effort that fuels the programs and advocacy services children in our community rely on. Every contribution helps ensure that local youth have the support, stability, and encouragement they need to thrive.


Your generosity directly strengthens our work in educational advocacy, Fostering Futures mentorship, volunteer training, and life-changing court advocacy. More than ever, children facing uncertainty need caring adults and a strong community standing behind them.


We invite you to join us in making a meaningful impact before the year comes to a close. Together, we can give hope, provide consistency, and help shape brighter futures across Berkeley, Jefferson, and Morgan counties.


Thank you for your continued support and compassion.

Through the West Virginia Neighborhood Investment Program (NIP), donors who contribute to CASA of the Eastern Panhandle may qualify for state tax credits that can significantly reduce their West Virginia personal or business tax liability. By supporting our mission, you not only help strengthen our community through grants, scholarships, and vital initiatives—you also receive a financial benefit in return.

There’s still time to spread some festive cheer! Be sure to visit Lights on the Lake and cast your vote for CASA’s Community Christmas Tree. Your vote helps raise awareness for our mission while celebrating the spirit of the season.

“I wasn't really sure what to expect… and I'm really impressed. They're interesting, funny, smart, talented. They've got goals and ambitions, and maybe the most impressive thing is how they rise above their situations and they're successful despite having the difficulties that they experience.” 💙


—Michael Decker, one of CASA-EP’s newest mentors

Michael Decker shares his thoughts on his new role as CASA mentor. We are so thankful for mentors like Michael who are making real differences in the well-being of our youth!

CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is proud to welcome a new group of volunteer advocates who were officially sworn in at the Berkeley County Courthouse. The Honorable Judge Delligatti administered the oath, marking the start of their vital work supporting children in the abuse and neglect court system.

Please join us in celebrating our newest advocates: Judith Thurman, Alexander Krosse, Barbara Krosse, Jennifer Hess, Brittany Alley (Berkeley County); Jai Birch and Diamond Daye (Morgan County); and Destinee Myers and Kimberly Fortney (Jefferson County).

We are grateful for their commitment to ensuring every child has a voice and a champion. Welcome to the CASA-EP family! 💙