CASA of Berks County is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, marking a decade of advocating for children in foster care who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Since opening in 2015, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Berks has worked to ensure children navigating the foster care system have a trained advocate to represent their best interests in court and help guide them toward safe, permanent homes.
In its first year, the organization trained 21 volunteers to advocate for 25 children. Today, nearly 60 active volunteers are part of the program. Over the past decade, 134 trained volunteers have spoken up on behalf of 313 children across the county.
Growth rooted in community support
CASA of Berks County was founded with initial investments from the United Way of Berks County, the Berks County Community Foundation, and the Wyomissing Foundation. The nonprofit now operates on an annual budget of more than $370,000, funded by the Victim of Crimes Act (VOCA), PA CASA, United Way of Berks County, the Berks County Bar Foundation, and local donors and businesses.
“We are incredibly proud of the impact we’ve made over the past ten years, but even more grateful for the community that has stood beside us,” said Executive Director Nancy McCullar. “Our growth is rooted in the passion of our volunteers and the trust of our partners.”
Looking ahead
While CASA celebrates its progress, McCullar emphasized that the work is far from finished.
“Ten years in, and we’re just getting started,” she said. “Every child deserves a champion. As long as there are children in foster care, CASA will be here—standing in the gap, telling their stories, and reminding the world that every voice matters.”
Anniversary gala planned
To mark the milestone, CASA of Berks County will host a 10th Anniversary Gala of Light on October 4, 2025. The event will honor its three founding organizations and recognize Anne Marie Cucinotta as the 2025 Champion for Children. The evening will also feature an auction of artwork donated by the Berks Arts Alliance and stories from families and volunteers touched by CASA’s work.
For more information on CASA’s 10th anniversary celebrations, volunteer opportunities, or ways to support the nonprofit, visit www.casaberks.org.