Dear CASAs,

As most of you are aware, I have submitted my res-ignation and my last day with the CASA Program will be January 9. When I was growing up, my family served as a foster family. None of my foster siblings had a CASA; all of them certainly would have

benefited from having one. The CASA Program is extraordinary, greatly needed across the country to ensure that our children have the safety net of an advocate to catch them if they begin to fall through the cracks of an overwhelmed, bursting-at-the-seams child welfare system. I have genuine respect for CASA and its mission, and I cannot even begin to describe how difficult it was to make this decision.

The quote in the center of this page is from Fred “Mister Roger’s Neigh-borhood” Rogers. You’ve likely heard it from Bonnie Marcus, our state program manager, and I’ve chosen to borrow it as an eloquent summary of what I have struggled for weeks to find the words to say: I truly do consider you my heroes. Rather than decide that the plight of our children is not your problem, you’ve acknowledged the need and have chosen to respond. Your advocacy work is complex and in-tense; you are frequently an “adversity magnet,” and the value of your contribution sometimes appears to be overlooked or underappreciated. There are many “easier” volunteer opportunities, yet you have chosen to be a CASA, bringing with you the tenacity, fortitude, and dedication that

“We live in a world in which we need to share respon-sibility. It’s easy to say ‘it’s not

my child, not my community, not

my world, not my problem.’ Then there are those

who see the need and respond. I con-sider these people

my heroes.”

Fred Rogers

Volume 4, Issue 1, January/February 2009

Pima County Juvenile Court CASA Program 2225 East Ajo WayTucson, Arizona 85713Tel: 520 740 2060

CASA Program Update

Feeling gratitude and not expressing it is like wrapping a present and not giving it.

William A. Ward

Inside this IssueCASA Program Update ......................... 12008 Supporters ................................... 2 LE & Mini LE Recaps .....................3-4, 8Training Opportunities .......................... 5Kudos ..................................................... 6Calendar ................................................ 7Outings & Opportunities ....................... 9Support Council News ........................ 11

ensures that our Judges have the best and most objective information available and that our kids receive the services to which they are entitled. While the challenges of being a CASA may be greater, so, too, are the rewards of being a posi-tive force of change in a vulnerable child’s life.

I have strived to thank individuals and agencies both publicly and privately for their support and contributions; I hope I have been successful in that regard. The list is lengthy and I fear I would inadvertently omit and offend someone, so while I offer a blanket statement of overwhelm-ing gratitude to everyone who has contributed

to our success, I must shine the spotlight on you, the CASAs, be-cause you are the heart and soul of the CASA Program; your contin-ued efforts and dedication are the reason we exist.

Although I’m not yet certain what my next endeavor will be, I am certain it will be another exciting opportunity that will allow me to contribute meaningfully to our community, and I am very hopeful that it will also allow me to meet and work with as many terrific people as I have had the privilege of working with these past 3 ¼ years with CASA. You are without a doubt some of the most dedicated, passionate, compassionate, and giving individuals I have had the privilege of knowing. My respect and admiration for you and the work you do will continue long af-

ter my role here has ended… and you will always be my heroes!

My best to you always,

Trish

CASA Consortium Page 2

PROCEDURE

Long-Distance Phone Calls

CASAs can use the AOC Switchboard to place long-distance phone calls pertaining to their cases.

Please call 1-800-352-8400 and state that you are with the CASA Program.

Just give the operator the number you are calling from and the number you are trying to reach, including the area codes.

If you are asked to provide an EIN (Employee Identification Number), please state that you are a CASA volunteer. If you experience any problems, please call your Coordinator so we can work with State to resolve the issues.

The CASA Support Council for Pima County would like to extend their sincere thanks to our supporters in 2008

Dwight and Amy AdamsLinda AgorAllegra Print & ImagingThomas and Sudy AltholzBud and Sandee AndersonGeorge and Marjorie AnsellArizona GastroenterologyNorma ArnowBrush AshDr. Robert and Sharon BakerBank of America Charitable FoundationMark and Patty BeardsleyTony Benitez (BGR Financial Group)BHP CopperJohn and Joan BishopElizabeth BloomStuart and Barbara CalderPat and Marilyn CaporaleCarondolet Medical GroupFred and Martha ChaffeeTerry ChandlerJames and Patricia ChristensonDr. P Dennis and Patricia CitronClear Channel-Debbie WagnerArthur and Robin CohenEdward and Arlene CohenRichard ConverseJohn and Renee CooperPhil and Susie CorkillGorham and Marilyn CowlNeal Cash (CPSA)Cole and Jeannine DavisSteve and Katherine DawsonMike and Kathleen DelanyAugust and Carolyn DelucaWalter and Susan DentonTimothy and Allison DittmannStuart and Ann DobbieC.E. (Buzz) DolsberryFred and Betty DustoBert and Peg FalbaumFalbaum Investment GroupRobert and Gail FennimoreJon Flora (Fry’s –The Kroger Co. Foundation)Joan FranzBruce Frost (Freedom RV)John and Jane GabroyThe Gardner Family FoundationAndy GenorHoward GlasserJoe and Paulette GootterBill and Susan GranaMarian GreenbergMary K Greenleaf

Mary GriffinDonna GrischowRussell and Margaret HamachekKen and Marian HandyBill and Joyce HavensCarl E. HazlettJeffrey and Judith HelzelStephen and Marianne HendersonRodric and Barbara HimebaughMichael and Stephanie HoffmanJon and Judy HolgatePeter and Sharon InorioFili Islas (The Mahoney Group)Jerry and Glenda JacksonRick Jaep and Karen SteinkirchnerAlan and Gail JaffeHerb KannerRobert Kirby and Etsu SuzukiC. and F. KirchnerNed and Nancy KohnKOLD-News 13-Jim ArnoldRon KrapaCharles and Anne KreckeArthur and Rhonda KremersMaryanne KrisherEdward and Mary KunkelColleen KylerNancy LandesLeo and Murielle LangloisBob Lanier (Freedom RV)Yong and Mee-Huang LeeRichard and Mary LeslieElizabeth LinnellLudwig Klewer and Co. PLLCSteve and Cathy LydersDavid and Barbara MarcusCary and Fern MarmisGail MartinBijan and Carolann MashoufSteve and Marti McEllisJames and Mary Jane McGeachinBob and Danita McMahonTara McMahonKaren MartinPeggy MilfordMarlee MillmanKaren MitchellLou and Ruthie MorganRobert and Deanna MorkenRichard and Yvonne Morris Al and Jeannie MuellerJudith MurphyJohn and Cheryl NealJoan NeighborsMary Newton (Smith Barney)Parsons DesignCynthia PattersonPerfection Plastic SurgeryDonald and Shirley PetersonTex and Pam PhippinRobert and Connie PickeringRoger and Sharyn PinkstaffJack and Virginia PollinPWC – Diana Constantino

Mike and Linda RaezerJoan ReichCharles and Mimi ReidGreg and Becca ReihmanDouglas and Diana RichardsonLarry and susan RingBob Rockov (Budget Resale)Robert and Mary RombaughCharles and Margaret RosenquistRon and Patsy SableDavid and Julie SalgadoAndrew and Susan SametRita SchmitzJohn and Phyllis SeegerGust and Jean ServisSheftel and AssociatesBarry and Donna SheridanStuart and Barbara SiegelmanSJK Properties LLCHarold and Kathleen SnyderTiffani SollarsJanet SpadoraDr. Paul and Jan SpaethBrian and Jackie Stark (Stark Electric)Richard and Deenagh SteeleStephens Family TrustNancy StraussSusan WoolsonPatricia TalbotPatricia TapkeTed and Shirley TaubeneckTauck World DiscoveryBob Thompson (911 Collision Ctr)Jeff Timon and Robyn KesslerWarren TraskDonald and Bonnie TrawickiTucson Lifestyle MagazineM.G. and Celia TuttleDon and Roberta VandegriffVolvo of Tucson (Rocky DeChristofano)Wachovia SecuritiesSusan WaggonerClive and Barbara WarrilowRobert and Evie WasikHerbert and Joan WeberSaul and Caron WeinsteinLester and Carol WellbornBill and Melissa WengerLarry and Laurie WetterschneiderKathy WilsonThe Woodard FamilyDuval and Deloris WoodfordJohn and Moreen YunckTina ZayhowskiCharlotte ZeschRoy and Ginny Zimmer

CASA Consortium Page 3

Learning Event RecapNovember’s Learning Event featured Tim Jefferson from Victim Witness (how to recognize, deal with, and prevent compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma) and Anne Cornell from CPSA (how CFTs use the CASII assessment tool to determine the level and intensity of services needed). Following are the main points of the presentations and CASAs may contact their Coordinators for more details or to obtain copies of the accompanying handouts.

Compassion fatigue is physical and emotional depletion caused by the accumulated memory of victim’s stories and experiences or from one’s own trauma on the job. Vicarious trauma occurs when an individual has consistent or repeated exposure to traumatic events. Compassion fatigue and vicarious trauma often result in “burnout” which may occur for a variety of reasons including inadequate training, lack of resources, frustration with the criminal justice system, interpersonal or interagency conflicts, absence of closure, role conflict, or ongoing human suffering and cruelty.

Symptoms of compassion fatigue can be physical, emotional, or cognitive and may include headaches, body pain, physical fatigue, anxiety, anger, depression, apathy, irritability, withdrawal, increased use of drugs/alcohol/comfort foods, decreased self-esteem, nightmares/flashbacks, and loss of purpose, faith, or self-satisfaction. Vicarious trauma may result from personal history, inadequate coping skills, current life circumstances or aspects of the work itself, including the confidential nature of the work, trust and betrayal issues, problems in the system, or negative social attitudes.

Individuals suffering from compassion fatigue, vicarious trauma, or burnout may become ineffective, violate boundaries, withdraw from individuals or their work, or make bad judgment or unwise decisions. Healthy coping strategies include effective time management, healthy boundaries, good nutrition and exercise, adequate time for relaxation, interpersonalconnections, realistic expectations of what can/cannot be accomplished, and a sense of humor.

The purpose of the Child and Adolescent Service Intensity Instrument (CASII) is to provide a common framework for making decisions about service intensity placement, continued stay, and

outcomes in the treatment of children/youth. Clinical severity and service needs of children/adolescents are assessed in three areas: psychi-atric, substance use, developmental disorders.

The CASII was implemented in July, 2008, and is used for all children aged 6 to 18 who are enrolled in the behavioral health system. It is administered at intake, at points of signifi-cant change (e.g., placement disruption), at six months, and again at discharge. The CASII is a multi-dimensional, multi-informant assessment, meaning that it incorporates input from a variety of sources, including from CASAs, and it includes the following six dimensions: Risk of Harm, Functional Status, Co-occurance of Conditions, Recovery Environment, Resiliency/Response, and Involvement of Services. Service Intensity levels range from Level 0 to Level 6 (from prevention/maintenance to secure, 24-hour psychiatric man-agement) and encompass the areas of clinical services, support services, crisis stabilization, and care environment.

The CASII is an effective instrument that may be complex to the uninformed user. It should be used within the CFT structure on all CASA cases. CASAs who missed this Learning Event should contact their Coordinators for copies of the presentation handouts and information about how to complete the CASII and participate in its use during the CFT.

Mini Learning Event RecapDecember’s Mini Learning Event featured Akeelah and the Bee in the CASA Theater. The movie follows an 11-year old girl whose distracting home life and poor school perfor-mance threatens to strangle her aspirations… until she agrees to participate in the school spelling bee to avoid detention. We won’t give away the ending, but the movie highlights the mantra often heard within CASA – that the sta-bility and encouragement of at least one adult makes a significant difference in a child’s life. Post-movie discussion included different forms of abuse, cultural differences, and the impor-tance of goals and natural support systems. CASAs who missed the “Mini” and would like to view the movie may rent it from most any movie rental location and contact their Coordinators to receive in-service credit.

CASA Consortium Page 4

Mini Learning Event RecapDr. Beverly Tobiason’s October presentation was regarding Systems Theory. While psychotherapy looks solely at the individual, Systems Theory views all relationships or “systems” as interac-tive and impacting each other greatly. This article highlights the System Theory and Eco Systemic Mapping.

A “system” refers to a group of people in interac-tional relationships and can include family units, individuals, and the subset of those groups such as spouses, siblings, parents, etc. Other “systems” in a dependent child’s life may include schools, CPS, probation officers, the Court, extended family, friends/neighbors, and place-ments. Systems are organized, interactive, and interdependent and they are defined by boundaries, rules, and a hierarchy.

The overarching theory, or Systemic Perspective, is that a person can carry a symptom or problem-atic behavior for the entire family and the person’s functioning can be a manifestation of the way the family or system functions. Symptoms may exist outside of the family or sys-tem structure and always have ramifications for family or other system members. Changing the system can change the person. Dysfunctional patterns of relating can be replaced by creating functional ways of interacting and relating.

The Family Systems Perspective is that children are best understood through assessing their interactions within a family and that symptoms can be viewed as expressions of a dysfunction within a family. The Family Systems Perspective is that problematic behaviors serve a purpose in a family, are a function of the family’s inability to operate productively, and are patterns that are handed down through generations. A family is an interactional unit and a change in one member affect all members.

Family Therapists operate under the premisethat affiliations and interactions have more power in a person’s life than a single therapist could ever hope to have; that by working with a family or a system, a therapist can see how a person acts and serves the needs of these systems; and that seeing a person active in differing systems can assist in developing intervention for positive change.

Systems Theory prescribes that collaboration is required because conflict – be it parent/parent, parent/system, or system/system conflict – equates to stress on the children involved.

Dr. Tobiason also gave participants a quick lesson on Structural Mapping and provided examples of a healthy family structure as well as other family structures with varying imbalances. Information on additional family therapy theories and interventions was also provided, and CASAs may contact their Coordinators for handouts and information.

Special Education Law& Advocacy Training

www.wrightslaw.com

The TUSD Exceptional

We value our children and their education.

Parent Project Continental breakfast, lunch & break time snacks are

included in the registration fee.

This program is designed to meet theneeds of parents, health care providers,

educators, advocates, and the attorneyswho represent children with disabilities.

Wrightslaw special education law & advocacy programs are designed to meet the needs of parents, health care providers, educators, advocates, and the

attorneys who represent children with disabilities.

SPEAKER

This advocacy training supports any disability.

Peter Wright, Esq. is an attorney who represents children with special educational needs.

In second grade, Pete was diagnosed with learning disabilities including dyslexia, dysgraphia and ADHD. He was fortunate - his learning problems were identified early. His parents obtained intensive Orton-Gillingham remediation for him by Diana Hanbury King. Pete's determination to help children grew out of his own educational experiences.

In 1977, Pete graduated from T. C. Williams Law School at the University of Richmond.

On October 6, 1993, Pete gave oral argument before the United States Supreme Court in Florence County School District Four v. Shannon Carter, 510 U.S. 7 (1993). Thirty-four days later, the Court issued a unanimous decision for Shannon Carter. (Learn more about it at www.wrightslaw.com/law/caselaw/carter.links.htm" Florence County v. Shannon Carter)

He appeared as the parent's attorney in the award-winning DVD video, Surviving Due Process: When Parents and the School Board Disagree - Stephen Jeffers v. School Board (2004). Pete and Pam Wright are the founders of the #1 ranked website about special education law and advocacy.

• Total retail value of both books is $50

• Both books included in registration pricing

• Take advantage of early registration pricing

UPDATED 10/30/08

Outside page

Change “Proud Partners in Collaboration:” “Charter Partners in Collaboration:’

Under “speaker” information it reads “in in”. One “in” needs to be eliminated.

In the same area the entire sentence with “…Badvocacy” needs to be deleted.

It will be replaced by the sentence below it that reads “Pete & Pam Wright are the founders of the #1…”.

On the third panel where it has “Thursday, Mach 12, 2009…” need to add “am” after “8:00” and there should be a space between the two.

Add a “space” between “4:30” and “pm”

Delete the comma “,” after “Parking is free”

Charter Partners inCollaboration:

Tucson Convention Center260 S. Church Avenue

Tucson, AZ

Thursday, March 12, 20098:00 am - 4:30 pm

(520)324-3150

(Parking is free in TCC lots. You must tell the attendantthat you are with the “Wrightslaw Training”)

Cont

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CASA Consortium Page 5

PROCEDURE

Checking on Hearing Status

It is always a good idea to verify that your case hearing will be held and has not been contin-ued or vacated before making the trip to PCJCC. We do our best to let you know about any hear-ing date changes, but don't always receive word in a timely fashion.

You can confirm the day before that a hearing is taking place by calling your Coor-dinator who can check the court calendar.

As an alternative, you can check by calling the Calen-dar Office at 740-2900 be-tween 8 am and 5 pm. Be prepared to provide the case J number as no information will be released without it.

The Blake FoundationLocation: Child & Family Resources, 2800 E Broadway Blvd., Tucson, AZ Phone: (520) 795-4977 ext. 209, Christy South

January 23, 2009 9am to 4 pmVery Young Children exposed to Domestic Violence: An Overview

February 20, 2009 9am to 12 pmIdentification, Assessment and Diagnoses of Infants, Toddlers and Preschoolers Exposed to Family Violence

March 13, 2009 9am to 4 pmTreatment and Intervention Strategies for Professionals Working with Very Young Children Exposed to Violence in the Home and Community

April10, 2009 9am to 4 pmFamily Team Conferencing for Domestic Violence Cases

CPSA Community TrainingRegistration is necessary for all training sessions.Location: CPSA Training Center, 2502 N. Dodge Blvd., Tucson, Arizona

Living with a Family Member Who Has DepressionJanuary 13, 2009, 1:00 - 3:00 p.m.Presented By: Nancy Rybski, CPSA Over their lifetime, one in five people will experience clinical depression, therefore, almost every family is affected by the disorder. This workshop provides practical information on de-pression’s impact, myths and realities, and optimal ways to handle depression in one’s family.

Uncovering Perceptions of Diversity (Formerly Cultural Awareness)January 15, 2009, 9:00 - 11:30 a.m.By: Thea Tate & Melina Perez-McKenna, CPSA This introductory, exploratory session offers participants an experience in examining how their attitudes, values, and beliefs impact the individuals served in the behavioral health system.

Addictions 101January 20, 2009, 1:30 - 4:30 p.m.Presented By: Thea Tate, CPSAThis training will focus on research describing the neurological basis of addiction, including the changes that occur in the brain. Participants will be presented with practical interventions for responding to this neurological condition.

Children & Adolescents with Mental IllnessJanuary 20, 2009, 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.Presented By: Dr. Sandy Stein, CPSA Learn the symptoms of several child/youth thought and mood disorders. Find out valuable information on conditions and functioning of these youth.

Arizona Children’s AssociationLocation: Southern AZ Center Against Sexual Assault, 1600 N. Country Club., Tucson, AZ FREE training on infant adoption, presenting adoption on an equal basis with other pregnancy options. Participants may choose either (not both) class: Friday, Jan 23-- 8:15 am to 4:30 pm OR Saturday March 21-- 8:15 am to 1:00 pm. Call or go online to preregister: www.iaatp.com or 1-877-774-0111 ext 138 (Jan) or ext 129 (Maria).

Training Opportunities

CASA Kudos!

CASA Consortium Page 6

Congratulations to Cindy Edwards, Dinah Taub, Paul Kline, Warren Trask, Marilyn Buchsieb, Diane Sheehy, Carol Weinstein, Linda Koral and Debbie Samec, on the successful adoptions of their CASA children at Adoption Day in the Park!

Congratulations to Ali Boelts whose case ended with the baby finding a permanent placement, and to Dean Finkbeiner and Terry DuBay whose cases ended with both children enrolling in the Arizona Young Adult Program.

Kudos to Ruth Davey for guiding her CASA child and his relatives into successful counseling sessions and to Katie Calvert for continued dedication and patience as her CASA child faces ongoing struggles.

CFT members praised Sharon Dely for excellent questions and input on her very complex case and Marie Roberts was recognized for “valuable contributions to the Child and Family Team Practices in Pima County.”

Cassandra Fraley was commended by an attorney for her thorough court report, and Angela Buonaugurio was recognized by an attorney as one of “the best” CASAs he has worked with. An attorney stated that “we are very lucky” to have Jo Ann Durrani on her case and Judge Knuck concurred.

Thanks to Linda Koral for assisting a fellow CASA with her contact logs.

Martin and Josephine Balk were recognized by the Court for the number of years they have been dedicated to their case and Judge Hochuli thanked Barbara Abrahams for her work on her case.

FCRB commended Alisha Stoddard for the advocacy on her case and recognized Celeste Garigan for her 5-year commitment and continued support to her CASA child.

CPS commended Rita Schmitz for her commitment to her CASA children and the foster care licensing worker thanked Cassandra Fraley for great work on her case..Thanks to Allen and Martha Baron for driving their CASA child to Phoenix to spend Thanksgiving with his future adoptive placement.

Thanks to Tom Butler who is a consistent source of support to his case child and to Risa and Jason Shire who quietly work “behind the scenes” to ensure their case child is receiving needed services.

Kathy Miller was commended by the CPS worker and an attorney for her excellent and thorough court report.

Huge thanks to Tom Jensen, Gloria Olvera, Kathy Miller, Sharon Skaggs, Liz Burke, Allan Hutton, and Mimi Murphy for attending the CASA booth at the 4th annual Casino del Sol Tamale Festival. (see photo below)

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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CASA Consortium Page 7

Sunday Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday

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Due Reimbursement Requests Due

Reimbursement Requests Due

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CSCPC Meeting

2 pm

Mini Learning Event 5-7 pm

All StaffUnavailableMondays9–10:30 am

CoordinatorsUnavailableThursdays10–11:30 am

See page 5 for a listing of available trainings and their dates through CSPS, Blake Foundation and AZ Children’s Assoc.

CSCPCMeeting

2 pm

Speakers’ Bureau Training

1:30

Advocacy Academy

Advocacy Academy

CSCPC Board Retreat

MLK Day

10-12 Volunteer Fair Green

Valley Library10-12 Volunteer

Fair WilmotLibrary

10-12 Volunteer Fair Marana

LIbrary

Baby Brigade4-5:30

Himmel Park

Baby Brigade4-5:30

Himmel Park

Call for Volunteers! CASA will be participating in Volunteer Fairs at public libraries on Thursday, Jan 29 (Green Valley), Saturday, Jan 31 (Wilmot), and Saturday Feb 7 (Marana). We need willing volunteers to staff these fairs for two hours only, 10 am to 12 pm. If you can help, PLEASE contact Ali at 740-4737 or by email at alison.boelts@pcjcc.pima.gov. THANK YOU !!

CASA Consortium Page 8

Mini Learning Event RecapIn the November training, Dr. Beverly Tobiason completed her series with information on Child and Adolescent and Treatment Issues. The information provided at the training was too ex-tensive to convey in its entirety, and CASAs who need more information or would like to acquire the handouts may contact their Coordinators.

The 5-Axis Diagnosis provides specifics about each axis as it pertains to assessment. It offers a thumbnail sketch for clinicians to see a youth’s comprehensive issues (symptoms and functioning) and for determining what and how to most effectively treat for best results. Diagnoses may change based on reported symptom changes, additional information collected (screening instruments, youth and other’s reports), differing clinical judgments, and duration of symptom presentation.

The 5-Axis is based on the Diagnostic and Sta-tistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-IV-TR). The listing of childhood diagnoses is extensive; a partial listing includes Disruptive Behav-ior Disorders (such as ADHD or Oppositional Defiant Disorder); Depressive Mood Disorders (such as Depressive Mood Disorders or Bi-Polar Disorder); Anxiety Disorders (such as Anxiety Disorders, Social Phobias, Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or Separation Anxiety Disorder); Feeding/Eating Disorders (such as Anorexia or Bulimia); Mental Retardation (classified as Mild, Moderate, Severe, or Profound); Learning Disor-ders; Pervasive Developmental Disorders (such as Autism or Asperger’s); and Substance Abuse/Dependence.

Current diagnostic classifications are inadequate in describing the full range of difficulties that traumatized children experience/present. Most common trauma diagnoses are Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Depression, Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder (CD), Generalized Anxiety Disorder (GAD), Separation Anxiety Disorder, Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD). Each of these diagnoses captures an aspect of the traumatized child’s experience, but does not represent the whole picture.

Dr. Tobiason provided a list of 15 pertinent ques-tions CASAs may wish to ask if it is noted that youth behavior is not improving, and the following statistics were provided regarding mental health and youth in foster care:

• While 16-21% of children in the general popula-tion have mental health needs, 80% of children in foster care have mental health needs.

• Children in foster care are at higher risk of not receiving adequate mental health care due to

multiple placements and lack of caretaker advocacy resulting in a vicious cycle.

• Adults with untreated child trauma more prone to a variety of issues including depression, suicide attempts, substance abuse/dependence, sexual promiscuity, domestic violence, smoking, obe-sity, physical inactivity, STDs, jail/prison, mental hospitalization, and homelessness. (van der Kolk, B. A rational diagnosis for children with complex trauma histories and Adverse Childhood Experi-ences study by Kaiser Permanente and Disease Control)

Dr. Tobiason also presented information on common evaluations, appearance and features of selected disorders and research-based treat-ment options for youth. CASAs are reminded to contact their Coordinators for more information or for copies of handouts.

ALERT TEAM MEMBERS!

Keep an eye out (in your email/mail boxes) for information on upcoming ALERT Team meetings.

Gloria Olvera, honored by Parent Aid at the annual Teddy Awards

As the winner of the 2008 “Volunteer of the Year” award, Gloria now belongs to the prestigious

Teddy Society.

Congratulations Gloria, on your well deserved achievement!

Sean Young, Executive Director of Parent Aid, with Gloria Olvera

phot

o Pa

rent

AID

CASA Consortium Page 9

Training Update The recently implemented Child and Adolescent Service Intensity Instrument (CASII) is an extremely important new tool at the disposal of CASAs who need to ensure that Behavioral Health Services are being properly and adequately provided to their CASA children. Please read the synop-sis (on page 3 of this issue on Consortium) of the recent training given in November for a brief explanation of the CASII tool.

Coordinators recently were briefed on CASII and all agreed that CASAs really need to understand this critical instrument which would be vitally important in certain CFTs. We are requesting that CASAs call their Coordinator to express interest in another training on this crucial information.

With guidance from the State CASA offices, new CASA training procedures have been going through a transformation over the past year and for 2009, the training proce-dure for new CASAs is a follows:• Interview and background check• “Getting Started” class approx. six hours• “Advocacy Academy” two full days• “Beyond the Basics” approx. six hours• Courtroom observations with CoordinatorAny “seasoned” CASA who wishes to participate in these training sessions as a refresher, to become acquainted with new information or procedures or to help them to obtain in-service credits, may do so. CASAs interested in these training sessions should contact their Coordinator for dates and registration.

Please also remember that the requirement that CASAs obtain 12 hours in-service credit each calendar year. In addition to CASA training, credit may be obtained by attending CASA Learning Events and Mini Learning events and classes and seminars outside CASA (i.e. Blake and CPSA classes). The CASA State website also provides opportunities to obtain training credits through pdf and podcast downloads, and online training modules. http://www.supreme.state.az.us/casa/pre-pare/training.html

Outings and Opportunities FREE PASSES/DISCOUNTS/INEXPENSIVE CHOICES FOR CASAs

Reid Park Zoo900 S. Randolph Way 881-4753 Contact your CASA coordinator to check out a free pass from the CASA office and return it afterwards.

Arizona Sonora Desert Museum2021 N. Kinney Rd. 883-2702 Contact your CASA coordinator to get free tickets.

Pima Air & Space Museum 6000 E. Valencia Rd 574-0462 Contact your CASA coordinator to get free passes.

Titan Missile Museum1580 W. Duval Mine Rd. 625-7736 Contact your CASA coordinator to get free passes.

Golf-N-Stuff6503 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 296-2366 The CASA Support Council has arranged for a special package for CASA kids. Present badge and sign in.

Funtastics221 E. Wetmore Rd 888-5739 Free for CASA kids to receive free admission. CASAs must present badge at ticket counter and sign the log-in sheet. In addition to this free package deal, tickets for extra rides and rounds of golf are available at the CASA office.

Training Compliance SuperstarsThe in-service training hours for 2008 have been compiled and are being recorded. Our Program’s CASAs do a wonderful job of keeping up with the required training, thank you to you all who are compliant for 2008. Now is the time to make plans for 2009. There are so many ways to get your required training hours, including getting in on Advocacy Academy (formerly called OT) refresher training! Contact your Coordinator today for training information.

The drawing from among the 2008 training compliant CASAs will be held this month. Look for the winner of See’s Candy gift Certificates to appear in the next issue of the Consortium.

CASA Consortium Page 10

NEW This Spring!

Look for the CASA media campaign in yourTucson news-paper, on your favorite Clear Channel Radio stations and in Tucson Lifestyle Magazine!

Thanks to the AZ Lottery for their support!

Generous staff at Bashas’ make the holidays easier for deserving CASA Grandparent

Juan Hidalgo and the staff at the Bashas’ store located at Kolb and Sunrise donated a car full of items to a deserving CASA caregiver in order to brighten the holidays for her family of CASA children. The smiling staff turned out for photos with CSCPC president Elaine Flaherty and CASA Jamie Roach, who arranged for the Adopt-A-Family donation to be made.There was not a dry eye in the house as Juan and the entire staff presented food, household items and clothing to a grateful caregiver who serves as the placement for her grandchildren. The family, CASA Support Council, and CASA Program wish to thank Juan and his “elves” at Bashas’ for their generous contribution to this CASA family.

Scholarship Opportunities at Adventure Camps CASA Linda Pejchar has passed on important information for any CASAs whose CASA kids may be qualified for and interested in outdoor adventure.NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) and Outward Bound (Thompson Island) are outdoor summer experiential camps that offer amazing programs to young girls and boys. Due to their generosity, two of Linda’s CASA girls were given full scholarships to attend. If you have a CASA girl or boy, 12 years old or older, would be a good fit for a summer opportunity such as this, Linda would be happy to work with you to explore the possibility further. Linda says, “What I find neces-sary to accomplish this is... a fully committed teen and a very supportive case worker. These

can be life-changing opportunities for your youth.”For more information about these camp programs visit NOLS at www.nols.edu and Outward Bound at www.thompsonisland.org.You may also contact Linda Pejchar at lcpejchar@hotmail.com.

photo from NOLS website

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CASA Consortium Page 11

Message from our Support Council PresidentNews from the CASA Support Council for Pima County

In trying to find inspiration for this month’s article, I find myself struggling to find the right words and the right message. I started reflecting on what happened during 2008 that affected us all; the economy, the loss of jobs and income and no clear picture of when things will improve. Closer to home, we are seeing how these same things are leading to record numbers of street violence, domestic abuse and, I am saddened to say, larger numbers of abuse and neglect cases affecting the children of Pima County.

On a more personal level, we will soon be dealing with the loss of our Program Supervisor, Trish Biddix. She has demonstrated the greatest advocacy for and the strongest leadership of the CASA program since I have been involved. While I know that she would diminish her importance and give the credit to her Coordinators, her Staff, the CASAs and the Council, there is no denying that her presence and hard work has been the impetus to many new programs and initiatives. We will all miss her warm smile, dedication, community involvement and willingness to help (and her great chili!) and wish her only the best in the future.

Now what is most important is for all of us to renew our commitment to CASA. The program’s wonderful Coordinators, Vanessa, Tamara, Ramona, Nicole and Ali are stepping up to keep things on track. The Staff, Melita, Kendall and Maria are working hard so things continue to run smoothly, and the Council is working diligently on spreading the word and garnering more support for the Program every day. I want to thank each of them for their commitment and endless hours of volunteer duties. Finally, I would like to thank every CASA for doing what means the most, giv-ing of themselves so that children that have not had such a good life know there are people who care about what happens to them, are willing to stand up for them and advocate to give them a voice. The need has never been greater for you to STAND UP, work hard together with your CPS and Behavioral Health partners, and develop the best plan for the children you represent.

The CASA Support Council’s mission is to support the Arizona Court Appointed Special Advocate program, the Court Appointed Special Advocates and the children who are or have been involved in the CASA Program in Pima County. We intend to

continue to live up to our mission.On the other side of the spectrum, we have also seen some very successful things happen for the Council this year. In addition to granting a record number of personal requests for needs to the children, this year the Council presented every CASA child in the program with a $25 gift card so they could choose something special for them-selves as well as spend a fun day with their CASA. The CASAs and the children were very pleased with the new program as indicated by the many thank you cards, emails and phone calls we received. We also awarded over $5300 in scholarships to present and former CASA children that are now attend-ing college. In addition, we are in the plan-ning stages of our new tutoring program for CASA children grades 1 through 3 who are falling behind but do not qualify for special education. It is our hope that this program will make a significant difference in a child’s educational success while in dependency and grow to cover all CASA children in the future.

Finally, I would like to extend my personal thank you, as well as on behalf of the mem-bers of CSCPC, to all of the persons that continue to support the CASA program and most especially the children of Pima County through their generous donations. (Please see listings in another part of this newslet-ter). I extend my very best wishes for a happy and healthy 2009 to you all.

Elaine FlahertyPresident

U of A Design Student works with Council on new website

Elaine Flaherty, Council President, works with Angel Lopez, University of Arizona Graphic Design student, on the redesign for the new Pima County CASA website.

Pima County Juvenile Court CASA Program 2225 East Ajo WayTucson, Arizona 85713Tel: 520 740 2060

Pima County CASA Staff, Coordinators, Supervisors and CASA Support Council for Pima County

CASA Consortium

CASA CoordinatorsAli Boelts 740-4737alison.boelts@pcjcc.pima.gov Ramona Panas 740-2069ramona.panas@pcjcc.pima.govVanessa Ponce-Maez 740-4579vanessa.ponce-maez@pcjcc.pima.govTamara Sargus 740-4496tamara.sargus@pcjcc.pima.govNicole Stockett 740-2043nicole.stockett@pcjcc.pima.gov

Support StaffMelita Fisher 740-4764melita.fisher@pcjcc.pima.govKendal Plank 740-2060kendal.plank@pcjcc.pima.govMaria Romero 740-5024maria.romero@pcjcc.pima.gov

Children & Family Services Division DirectorChris Swenson-Smith 740-4562chris.swenson-smith@pcjcc.pima.gov Support Council Executive BoardElaine Flaherty PresidentSteve Lyders Fundraising Vice President Eloise Williams Programs Vice PresidentJan Webster SecretaryRon Palmer TreasurerRudy Ayala DirectorPatrick Caporale DirectorBonnie Lawrie-Higgins DirectorKathy Miller DirectorAl Mills Director EmeritusPat Palmer DirectorDiane Sheehy DirectorJudy Holgate DirectorPeter Spear Director

Pima County Juvenile Court CASA Program 2225 East Ajo WayTucson, Arizona 85713Tel: 520 740 2060