CASA-NH Celebrates 32 Years, Welcomes 5 Board Members in June
CASA of New Hampshire appointed five new board members and celebrated 32 years of advocacy on behalf of more than 10,000 during the month of June.
On June 17, CASA recognized and honored the work of hundreds of volunteer advocates over the past year, as well as the support it receives from a friends and community partners around the state.
During this year’s celebration, special recognition was given to 71 volunteers who reached milestones of 5, 10, 15, 20 and even 25 years of service that has made a significant impact on victimized children’s lives. Three awards were also given to an advocate and two community members who have been instrumental in supporting CASA and transforming the lives of children in New Hampshire.
Mark Linehan, of Glen, received the Linda Egbert Outstanding Advocacy Award. This honors the work of a CASA volunteer who has gone above and beyond in their advocacy work and made a tremendous impact in the lives of children. Linehan has advocated on behalf of 31 children from 12 families in his nine years as a CASA volunteer.
Lou Catano, of Strafford, received the John McDermott Champion of Children Award. This celebrates the work of one person whose tireless advocacy has influenced the lives of many. Catano served as the executive director of Webster House in Manchester for more than three decades.
Tom Boucher, of Bedford, received the Community Partner Award. This highlights CASA’s valuable community partners for their support, engagement and resources that they have contributed to furthering the mission of the organization. Boucher is the CEO-Owner of Great N.H. Restaurants, Inc. and a member of CASA’s Advisory Council.
Board comings and goings
At CASA’s June Board of Directors meeting, five new board members from around the state were appointed to their first terms. Those new members include: Michael Ambrogi, of North Hampton, senior technology fellow at Novocure Inc.; Karen Borgstrom, of Lyme, director of external affairs at Dartmouth-Hitchcock; Paul Chant, of Chocorua, a litigation attorney and director at Cooper Cargill Chant; Nancy Sampo, of Bow, president of Enviro-tote; and Tom Stevens of Manchester, who formerly served as a CASA volunteer.
Three additional board members, Judy Bergeron, Nick Giacoumakis and John Zahr, were recognized for their years of service as they stepped off of the board.
