SNOHOMISH COUNTY, Wash., February 25, 2022 – Peggy Estela, a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) with Snohomish County, is the recipient of the Champion for Children award designating her as volunteer of the year for the Snohomish County CASA Program. Ms. Estela is recognized for being a champion in the lives of abused and neglected children and for leading with CASA’s core values of hope, integrity, inclusion, and teamwork in the important work of child advocacy.
Joelle Kelly, Division Manager of the Snohomish County CASA Program stated, “There are at least 21 reasons to honor why Ms. Estela is so deserving of the Champion for Children award. The 21 reasons reflect the number of abused and neglected children Ms. Estela has given a voice to over the past five years as a volunteer CASA with our program. Ms. Estela provides best-interest advocacy and follows our guiding principles recognizing the importance of family preservation and reunification, equity, diversity, inclusion, and collaboration. Her dedication goes well beyond the CASA Program, stretching into the lives of children, families, and our communities as a whole.”
Ms. Estela’s colleagues view her as a vocal leader who advocates fairly, not only for the children she represents but also for anyone being treated inequitably. Her commitment to lifelong learning is demonstrated by her active membership in the CASA book club as well as her ongoing education on topics related to child welfare. She cares deeply about justice for children and families in our community and is a member of the CASA Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (J.E.D.I.) Collective.
Kathy Hayes, CASA Program Coordinator, works together with Ms. Estela on her court appointed cases. “It’s been such a pleasure working alongside Ms. Estela while she gives a voice to Snohomish County’s most vulnerable children,” shared Ms. Hayes. “She exudes genuine passion for child advocacy, family restoration, and reunification, and she is a leader among her peers sharing knowledge and offering support.”
The Snohomish County CASA Program has been an active part of the community for the past 43 years. At any given time, there are approximately 800 children in Snohomish County who are in the foster care system. Currently, more than 200 children are waiting to have a volunteer CASA speak up for their best interests in court. More volunteers are needed to become a champion for children, just like Ms. Estela.
For details about the role of the CASA, how to apply, and upcoming training dates, visit www.snohomishcountywa.gov/CASA or check us out on social media.
Content Source: Snohomish County Government
Author: Lynnwood Times Staff
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