Special to the Transcript
CASA is celebrating 25 years of being a valuable free community resource! CASA was created in 1997 by two friends: Brenda Curry and the late MaryAnn Lounsbury, concerned parents of high school students who saw issues arise related to substance abuse in Winthrop. They recognized not only the need for youth to have a safe place to hang out, but for one for their guardians and those who care for them to get moreinformation, support, and resources.
CASA acknowledges the importance of working upstream, implementing positive youth development programs and providing resources to young people and their families, in a judgment free environment, before they participate in risky behaviors. CASA and its coalition of partners strive to bolster protective factors to reduce risk and to encourage youth to see their strengths.
CASA, a 501-C3 non-profit organization, from its inception as Community Against Substance Abuse, has prided itself in building partnerships within the community and harnessing resources to address issues in our constantly changing world. The organization partners with a variety of local, state and federal partners to advocate for and serve youth and families impacted by substance misuse and oftentimes corresponding mental health needs.
CASA’s current programs include free youth-led drop- in groups for middle and high schoolers that provide youth directed activities that address topics relevant to them. Additionally CASA provides a specified LGBTQ+ support group, young women and men’s groups, and a social justice group. Other initiatives include a soft skills & career readiness program called Youthworks, and diversion program for students at risk of school suspension or adjudication. All CASA programs are overseen by talented professionals, a board of invested supporters and like-minded volunteers ready to lend a helping hand. All of CASA’s programming is completely free of charge to its participants.
While over the years, CASA has been recognized with grant funding on a federal and state level, to truly accomplish its goals of sustaining the organization and responding to needs as they arise, CASA must also rely on fundraising.
To celebrate its 25th anniversary, CASA is inviting the community to get involved and participate in our “$25 for 25 years†fundraiser!
Suggested contributions are:
• $25 per month
• a one-time donation of $25
• a one-time donation of $250
• or any other amount that you feel comfortable donating
Every penny received will directly benefit the Youth of Winthrop!
Please visit CASA at www.winthropcasa.org to learn more about the organization and/or to make a tax deductible donation. Donations may also be mailed to CASA, 45 Pauline St., Winthrop. Look for more in the near future as CASA continues to celebrate its 25 years of support to the community!