Non-profits and local businesses underwrite on WGUC and WVXU to get their message to a compassionate and engaged audience (that’s you!) We’re proud to play a role and honored to work with long-time partners like ProKids. We recently chatted with Digital Communications Manager for ProKids, Laine McDonnell.
How do CASAs impact the lives of children?
ProKids breaks the cycle of abuse and neglect that has typically spanned generations. When a child is removed from their home, their whole world is turned upside down. When they are assigned a CASA Volunteer, they have a trusted advocate who remains a constant in their life until they find a forever home. This CASA Volunteer connects everyone in a child’s life- from teachers and therapists, biological and foster parents, doctors, coaches – to make sure that child has everything they need to succeed.
Can you share a success story?
Andrea* was born pre–mature with a severe cleft lip and palate; she was removed from her parents at birth. Just three days prior, her mom – who had a history of drug use – tested positive for cocaine in the hospital. In the days that followed, Andrea’s CASA Volunteer observed the parents’ cold demeanors and heard Andrea’s father call the little girl a monster.
The foster parents Andrea was placed with saw her through this challenging time with a fierce commitment. Due to her condition, she was likely to choke on liquids, so the couple took turns staying up to ensure she slept safely. ProKids advocated alongside them for Andrea to receive the best medical care possible. Andrea’s CASA collaborated with a fantastic multi-disciplinary team at Children’s Hospital, keeping track of Andrea’s frequent medical appointments.
Adopted by her foster parents – a step supported by ProKids – Andrea will continue to receive that excellent care. She’ll have six to nine surgeries by the time she turns 18 and will receive counseling to become carefree and confident. She has a long way to go, but she will be surrounded by the love of her new family through it all.
*names and identifying details have been changed
Where is ProKids new home and how will it help fulfill your mission?
We are officially in our new generational home at 222 W 7th Street. This new space allows not only our staff and CASA Volunteers to collaborate, but our system partners as well. We are able to hold system-wide trainings, all of our classes for CASA University, and events for our community as well. The space was designed to bring people together and our CASAs enjoy being able to meet their CASA Managers and connect with staff. There is also a special closet where CASAs can pick up diapers for the families they serve and toys to mark special occasions that so often get overlooked in foster care.
You’ve been an underwriter on public radio for years. Why do you stick with CPR?
Our community is already listening to public radio. They love hearing about a cause they care about on the air amidst already trusted voices. When you support public radio, you are reaching an empowered listener who cares about local issues and tunes in to make sure they have all the best information. In Cincinnati we are lucky enough to wake up with Maryanne, have our lunch with Lucy, hear stories from Tana, and ride home with Bill – all trusted voices that make our city come alive. At ProKids we strive to be fair and unbiased voices for our children, just like this local news team does for our city.
CPR has partnered with ProKids for almost 20 years to collect gift cards for CASA gifts to students during the holidays. How can others help, too?
We love the gift cards collected by CPR! It allows foster parents to do special things for the children we serve and make memories as a family. We always welcome gift cards and toys but donations also go a long way in making sure a kids goes to summer camp, gets soccer shoes or art supplies.
What’s coming up at ProKids?
Our grand opening is June 11th at 10:30 am where the ribbon will be cut to open the Marianne Klekamp Center for Child Protection. Marianne was a lifelong advocate and champion for children and her family has honored the legacy of her work through their support of ProKids.
Where can listeners find more information about ProKids or becoming a CASA?
Please visit our website at www.prokids.org to learn more about getting involved with ProKids!