Organization recognizes advocates serving 260 children across Northern Kentucky
CASA of the Northern Bluegrass Region celebrated its dedicated volunteers during the organization’s 2nd Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner held on April 27 at Receptions. The evening honored the program’s advocates whose service provides critical support and a consistent voice for vulnerable children navigating the family court system.
The event recognized CASA’s 90 active volunteers, who collectively served 260 children in 2025 throughout Northern Kentucky and the organization’s nine-county service region. CASA of the Northern Bluegrass Region also expressed appreciation to Kosair for Kids for sponsoring the event and supporting the mission of child advocacy.
The evening included volunteer recognition presentations, fellowship among advocates and supporters, and reflections on the life-changing impact CASA volunteers make for children and families.
“Our CASA volunteers show up consistently for children who need stability, encouragement, and someone to advocate solely for their best interests,” said Nicky Jeffries, Executive Director. “Their dedication changes lives and strengthens families throughout our region.”
Several volunteers were recognized with special awards for their outstanding dedication and impact:
• Volunteer of the Year recipient Rick Gill – Rick Gill was honored for more than five years of dedicated service as a CASA volunteer. Gill has remained a consistent advocate for the same child since 2020, ensuring the child’s voice and needs remained represented throughout years of court proceedings.
• Notable Newcomer – Greg Kuhn – Greg Kuhn was recognized for quickly stepping into the role of advocate and making an immediate impact through his dedication and service.
• Lifelong Learner – Pat Lucia – Pat Lucia received recognition for a continued commitment to learning, growth, and strengthening advocacy skills in service to children and families.
• Community Connector – Rhonda Stone – Rhonda Stone was honored for building meaningful connections within the community and helping strengthen support systems for children and families.
• Legacy of Service Award – Eileen Donahue – Eileen Donahue was recognized for her remarkable 14 years of volunteer service and long-standing commitment to CASA’s mission.
CASA volunteers are specially trained community advocates appointed by judges to represent the best interests of children experiencing dependency, neglect, and/or abuse. Volunteers provide consistency, gather information, and advocate for safe and permanent outcomes for children navigating the family court system throughout Boone, Campbell, Carroll, Gallatin, Grant, Harrison, Kenton, Owen, and Pendleton Counties.
CASA of the Northern Bluegrass Region is currently seeking additional volunteers to help advocate for children in the family court system. Community members interested in becoming a CASA volunteer are encouraged to learn more about training opportunities and ways to get involved by visiting www.casanorthernbluegrass.org. Upcoming volunteer training opportunities are available throughout the year.
Donations directly support advocacy services, volunteer training, and resources for children served by CASA. Community investment in children is critical to creating safer and more stable futures, and every dollar makes a meaningful difference.
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life and are united by a commitment to ensuring every child has a voice in court and a caring adult advocating for their best interests. To learn more about volunteering or donating, visit www.casanorthernbluegrass.org.
Through the dedication of volunteers, supporters, and community partners, CASA of the Northern Bluegrass Region continues working to ensure every child has the opportunity for a safer and brighter future.
About CASA of the Northern Bluegrass Region
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of the Northern Bluegrass Region recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who advocate for children involved in the family court system due to dependency, neglect, and/or abuse. CASA volunteers serve as a voice for children and work to help ensure safe, permanent, and nurturing outcomes for every child served throughout the region.
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