Don Feltham, CFO at JK-North America, announces that the company has been presented with the Arkansas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Association "Heart of CASA Award" in the 2nd Judicial District for dedication and exemplary service on behalf of abused and neglected children. Melissa Russell, controller at JK-North America, accepted the award on behalf of the company at a luncheon held at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Little Rock, Ark. The presentation was part of the Children in the Courts Conference.
"We are honored to be recognized in such a meaningful way. JK-North America's commitment to corporate responsibility and demonstrated commitment to the children of Arkansas is a shining example of the way we operate," says Feltham. "All our employees strive to make a difference in the communities we serve and to organizations that are helping our youth. When it comes to charity, if you can't give money, then give time and if you can't give time, then help spread the word."
The Heart of CASA Award is designed to honor those not formally affiliated with a CASA program, but who demonstrate an exemplary commitment to the children CASA serves. This award serves to recognize those with the vision to see all children as deserving of safe, permanent homes. The Heart of CASA Award acknowledges those who affect positive change in the lives of children simply because they understand that every child's artwork should be on someone's refrigerator. The winner of this year's award continues to support CASA with both cash and service donations, despite the difficult economic times we all face.
"The Arkansas State CASA Association is grateful for the support of JK-North America. It's through support from companies like JK-North America that help us achieve our goals," shares Julian Holloway, director of the Arkansas State CASA Association. "Many kids are caught-up in the foster care system through no fault of their own. While the process must go on, someone needs to be there for the child and provide a voice of their own in the court system."
The Arkansas State CASA Association is a nonprofit organization that promotes and supports local programs providing qualified volunteer advocates to help abused and neglected children in juvenile dependency-neglect proceedings reach safe, permanent homes. Currently there are 25 CASA programs in Arkansas. Last year, 959 volunteers served 3,480 children throughout Arkansas courts. The vision for Arkansas CASA is to serve 100 percent of the abused and neglected children in the state, form a community that works together for the best interests of the children, and contribute to making the world one where every child can thrive and be safe.
Holloway states, "We're always trying to find resources – whether financial or through personal commitment – to help train people and assist in our mission." For more information about CASA, visit www.arkansascasa.org or call toll-free 866.284.8111.
