The Bergen CASA Bulletin: 2nd Half 2022

Meet a CASA: Jeanne McVerry 

For the first 11 years of Jeanne McVerry’s life, she was in foster care. During that time CASA did not exist, and Jeanne did not have someone advocating for her interests and needs outside of what the Division could provide for her. 

 “When I learned about the role of CASA, it wasn’t even a decision that needed to be made and I jumped at the opportunity to participate,” said Jeanne. “Being able to look at the whole child— their interests, needs, and goals while working as part of a team to make sure those things are addressed is incredibly gratifying”.

 Jeanne wants all new CASAs to know that they bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role regardless of their upbringing. She also says that the support system of mentors and supervisors provided is an incredible source of knowledge and assistance.

 Jeanne’s passion in life is children. She is the mother of 2 teenage athletes, a 20 + year veteran educator in grades 7 through 12, and she is also a reading specialist. And, during one of the most difficult school years on record she was a recipient of the 2021-2022 Governor’s Educator of the Year Award. Go Jeanne!

We think it is time to introduce you to our amazing Advocates, so look out for this feature in each upcoming newsletter too.

Image: Jeanne with our Executive Director, Lucy Rosen

Jeanne McVerry & Lucy Rosen

With her commitment and determination, the uncle was evaluated, and then fast-tracked to take Tommy and some of his siblings in. This seemed to be just what Tommy needed as his behavior calmed down. Tommy is now back in regular school and part of a new loving family thanks to the determined investigative powers of his CASA.

We will bring a foster child’s story to you in each of our newsletters to help you understand how your support helps these children.