Ceremony Honors Court Volunteers From Berkeley

TOMS RIVER, NJ — Volunteers who support foster children in Ocean County were recently honored at a special ceremony hosted by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Ocean County.

The Extraordinary Heroes of CASA of Ocean County event on March 26 was co-hosted by Island Heights Mayor Steven Doyle and CASA Advocate Bernadette Doyle.

Ocean County Commissioners, a representative from Senator Andy Kim’s office, and mayors from many towns made presentations and granted proclamations at the event to honor the CASA of Ocean County volunteers.

Among those honored by Berkeley Township Mayor John Bacchione were advocates Diane Zondiros and Marjorie Kurtz-Cusack.

“Our incredible volunteers work tirelessly to make sure the foster children we serve are receiving the services and programs they need. CASA volunteers are a steady, consistent presence in the life of a child. We want children to know they are valued – children in the foster care system and beyond. It is one of the reasons these events are so important for our community and the work we do at CASA. We are always seeking to change a child’s story for the better,” said Ariane Yazdan, Executive Director of CASA of Ocean County.

Since 2006, CASA of Ocean County has recruited, trained and supported compassionate citizens to advocate for the best interests of foster children. These volunteers ensure children’s voices are heard in the courtroom and in the community. CASA volunteers help secure the educational foundation, emotional support, and medical attention for these foster children.

The event included formal proclamations from the Ocean County Commissioners and mayors, volunteer recognition and stories of advocacy.