New director named for CASA
ALBION – As recently named executive director, Erin Conley is now tasked with leading Northeastern Indiana CASA into its 36th year. The nonprofit serves five counties including Noble, DeKalb, Steuben, Lagrange and Whitley, while working to advocate for children in judicial proceedings.
Conley joined the Northeastern Indiana CASA team in 2020 as a Staff Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) and served specifically Whitley and Lagrange counties. Now her position will command her focus on overseeing the CASA volunteers, staff as well as community connections with court and government officials.
“It is a big role to take on, but I am excited for what I can give to this organization,” said Conley. “I’ve already learned so much from my position as a GAL. Having the executive director role will expose me to even more of CASA’s impact in the community. I want to generate more awareness within the five counties we serve as to the difference CASA is making.”
Prior to joining Northeastern Indiana CASA, Conley was a registered behavioral technician at Child’s Play Autism Center. She sees her experience as a motivator for her to keep speaking up for children who need a voice.
“I’ve always had a passion for working with children and bettering the lives of those I get to work with,” Conley said. “My love for helping families and children continues to grow and I’m looking forward to how I can apply that love to my new role here.”
Conley replaces Brooke Griggs, the most recent leader who navigated the nonprofit through COVID-19 and ever-changing protocols.
“I learned a lot from watching Brooke,” Conley said. “She tried to provide the best communication and support for our volunteers and staff during really challenging time. I know a change in this role is sometimes hard for some of our team, but if we could stick together and get through COVID-19 and all it’s ups and downs, we can get through anything.”
One of Conley’s first item of business is hosting the nonprofit’s annual fundraising event, CASA Palooza slated for May 13th at Sylvan Cellars in Rome City. The event features tasting stations spotlighting area restaurants, caterers, and eateries as well as silent and live auctions.
“It’s a big event and it’s important to get this one right… especially after having to hold a virtual event the past two years,” Conley said. “But thankfully I’m not doing it alone. Brooke had already done so much, and we have great volunteers and board members who share the responsibilities.”
To learn more about Northeastern Indiana CASA and its upcoming event, visit www.neincasa.net
