Tuesday, Aug 1, 2023

Introducing Our New CASA Program Superstar: Empowering Youth Through Advocacy

          

We are thrilled to welcome a compassionate and dedicated new member to our Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program team. Meet Caity Kinnick, a dynamic individual with a passion for empowering youth and making a positive impact in their lives. Caity was born and raised in southern Indiana and recently relocated to California to pursue a life-long dream. Beyond her work at CASA, she embodies the spirit of a free-spirited traveler, a creative photographer capturing life's beauty, and a loving rescue mom to furry companions.

With a strong educational foundation, Caity is a first-generation college graduate holding a bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Indiana State, and a master's degree in human services from Purdue Global. Her journey in the nonprofit sector began as an Americorps member, tackling the challenges of the opioid epidemic. She then devoted four years to serving the community as a Community Impact Officer for United Way, and as an Assistant Director for Vanderburgh County CASA. 

The mission of CASA deeply resonated with Caity, drawing her to join our team. She is driven by the desire to give children a voice in court and provide them with positive role models, and firmly believes that youth navigating the Justice System need guidance and mentorship, and the presence of a supportive person can help change their life trajectory.

CASA's commitment to giving children one-on-one attention and a platform for their voices to be heard in court deeply resonates with Caity. In an overwhelmed system, the presence of CASA volunteers plays a pivotal role in preserving the well-being of the child, providing educational support, and creating a safe, non-judgmental space for the youth.

Caity has set her sights on an ambitious goal in her new role: to develop and supervise a new program that assigns specially trained CASA volunteers to advocate for youth involved with the juvenile justice system. With her vast experience and a compassion, she aims to create a well-structured and supportive program, benefiting both the CASA volunteers and the teens navigating the juvenile justice system.

Her motto of "Be the change you wish to see in the world" reflects her unwavering commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of those she serves.

To recharge, Caity heads to the mountains, where she finds peace in photographing the beauty of nature. This hobby not only serves as a creative outlet but also reminds her of the importance of preserving and nurturing the wonders of the world around us.

Caity brings a wealth of experience, passion, and dedication to our CASA Program. With her arrival, we are confident that we will continue to empower and advocate for the welfare of vulnerable youth in the foster care system. Let us welcome Caity with open arms and support her as she embarks on this new chapter of her journey with us.