Building Stronger Advocates: Meet Louisiana's New CASA Training Facilitators

Last week, Louisiana CASA proudly hosted the Fall 2026 Training of Facilitators (TOF) in Covington, LA. This important training, led by Master Facilitator and Louisiana CASA's Director of Member Services, Stephanie Breeden, LMSW, equips staff members from across the state with the skills and knowledge needed to lead pre-service training for new CASA volunteers.

Pre-service training is the foundation of the CASA journey. It ensures that every volunteer is prepared to advocate for children in foster care with confidence, compassion, and professionalism. By becoming certified training facilitators, these dedicated staff members are now empowered to guide the next wave of CASA volunteers - advocates who will stand up for children and families across Louisiana.

We are thrilled to celebrate the newest class of training facilitators:

• Ciara Mitchell, Child Advocacy Services

• Dana Fennell, Capital Area CASA

• Alyssa Clement, Child Advocacy Services

• Sarah Charrier, CASA of NELA

• Kathleen Bahm, CASA of NELA

• Charity McAfoose, Child Advocacy Services

• Melissa Berghausen, Child Advocacy Services

• Cori Bonner, CASA of NELA

• Emily Page, Children's Advocacy Network

• Avah Videgaray, Child Advocacy Services

Each of these individuals has stepped into a role that is vital to the strength of our statewide network. As they begin facilitating trainings at their local programs, they will help shape the experiences of new CASA volunteers, ensuring advocates are well-prepared to make meaningful impacts in courtrooms and communities.

At Louisiana CASA, we believe that strong facilitators lead to strong volunteers, and strong volunteers lead to brighter futures for children. Congratulations to all of our new training facilitators, we can’t wait to see the difference you will make!