Many CASA Volunteers Surprised with Special Prize – Vanessa Gongora Report of 13 On Your Side

YUMA, Arizona (KYMA, KECY) – The court-appointed Special Advocate for Children, also known as CASA of Yuma County, held a 30th anniversary celebration and awards ceremony Friday night.

CASA defends foster children who need to speak on behalf of someone in court.

The main awards given were Rookie of the Year, CASA of the Year and Roadrunner of the Year.

The Roadrunner Award is given to volunteers who have traveled the most miles throughout Arizona to visit children in Yuma.

Winner KC Zargarian covered over 7,000 miles last year.

“And part of what we do is build relationships with our children. Also, we try to get siblings to see each other on a regular basis,” Zargarian said.

Christina O’Brien was awarded CASA of the Year for her support of abused and neglected children and her dedicated service to Yuma County’s CASA program.

Jonathan Sanchez wins Rookie of the Year.

A CASA pin was also awarded for more than 24 years of service.

The sponsors, CASA, Inc. and the Yuma Council of Nova Home Loans, received plaques.

Juvenile court director Edward Gilligan had a great time, dressed as Howard Stern and including a trivia game for the volunteers.