Page 87 - South Mississippi Living - September, 2026

CASA staff from left to right: Kelly Blackmon, Community Outreach Coordinator; Tyree McDonald, Advocate Supervisor;
Naomi Strawhorn, Victim Services Coordinator; Melinda Borja, Advocate Supervisor; Cynthia Zapata, Executive Director;
Lauren Saucier, Program Director; Ashley Tribble, Advocate Supervisor; Tanisha Lamb, Advocate Supervisor;
Linda Perkes, Advocate Supervisor; Shannon Dumitrescu, Advocate Supervisor
Sometimes it’s as simple as asking what they want.”
CASA’s ultimate goal is reunification whenever it can happen
safely. Advocates remain involved throughout the process,
helping ensure both children and parents receive the support
they need. When reunification is not possible, advocates
continue serving
children through
adoption or other
permanent placement
options.
The organization
currently has about
150 volunteers serving
more than 280 children.
However, more than 100
children in CPS custody
Remi the Courthouse Dog
across the three counties
are still waiting for an advocate. That’s why CASA actively
recruits and trains volunteers throughout the year.
While the work can be emotionally demanding, Shelton said
the rewards far outweigh the challenges. “You realize afterward
that everything you’re doing is working,” she said.
In addition to advocacy, CASA provides school supplies,
birthday cakes, and holiday gifts for children in care. The
organization is also home to Remi, Mississippi’s only courthouse
facility dog, she helps
comfort children during
court proceedings.
For Saucier, the impact
of CASA can be measured
in countless success
stories—children reunited
with families, adopted
into loving homes, or
graduating from high
school and moving on to
college, military service,
or careers.
But often, the most
powerful moments
are the simplest ones.
A phone call. A
conversation. A child
knowing in their heart
Taryn Shelton and Stone County
Youth Court Referee, the
Honorable Sean A. Courtney
someone will answer. And for
children navigating some of the most difficult circumstances
imaginable, that kind of consistency can make all the
difference.
To learn more about volunteering with CASA of South
Mississippi, visit casasouthms.org or call 228.344.0419.
SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living | www.smliving.net September 2026 | 87