2025 Advocate of the Year: Denaé Hebert

Each year, Louisiana CASA proudly recognizes the outstanding individuals and programs that go above and beyond in their commitment to advocating for children in foster care. The Awards of Excellence honor those who exemplify the heart of CASA’s mission—to ensure every child has a safe, permanent, and nurturing home.

These awards celebrate the passion, dedication, and impact of CASA volunteers, staff, board members, and partners across the state. From courtroom advocacy to organizational leadership, these honorees reflect the best of what CASA stands for: hope, compassion, and unwavering support for Louisiana’s most vulnerable children.

Advocate of the Year, Denaé Hebert

This year’s Advocate of the Year, Denaé Hebert of CASA of South Louisiana, embodies what it means to be a steadfast champion for children.

Judge Thomas Duplantier shared, “A great CASA Advocate is more than just a voice in the courtroom, they are a steady presence in a child's life, providing stability, trust, and relentless advocacy. Denaé has demonstrated time and again that she is exactly that kind of advocate.”

In one of her cases, a child experienced six different caseworkers over the course of their time in care. Through it all, Denaé remained the one consistent figure. “She ensured that critical medical and educational records were properly documented, securing necessary accommodations for the child's health and academic success,” said Judge Duplantier. “She was present at important events, offering support in ways that made the child feel seen and valued. Even after the case closure, she remained appropriately involved, continuing to check in and provide guidance.”

Her commitment continues across all her cases. “She has advocated for children in need of counseling after family loss… pushed for ADHD and autism evaluations when foster parents’ concerns were initially dismissed… and identified a child struggling with reading, leading to interventions that have now helped the child reach grade level,” Duplantier wrote. “Her recommendations are always thoughtful, unbiased, and entirely focused on the child's best interests.”

Kade Turner, Executive Director of CASA of SOLA, also praised Denaé's impact: “Over the course of the child's time in care, caseworkers came and went. In the midst of all that turnover, Denaé remained the one consistent, trusted adult—providing a steady voice and a safe presence throughout every transition… Because of her unwavering support and advocacy, this child—who once faced so much uncertainty—now thrives in a permanent, loving adoptive home.”

He added, “Denaé Hebert embodies the heart of CASA. She is consistent, dependable, and driven by a fierce belief that every child deserves to be seen, heard, and safe.”

That belief is clearly felt by those she serves. Jack Toups, a former CASA child, shared, “From the very beginning, she made me feel heard and valued… She has been a constant source of encouragement and support… Her dedication has truly made a difference in my life, and I know she does the same for so many other children.”

For her unwavering dedication, compassionate presence, and powerful advocacy, Louisiana CASA is honored to name Denaé Hebert the 2025 Advocate of the Year.