Happy “CASAversary” Lorna!

Lorna Rexrode is celebrating 27 years with CASA of Central Virginia. She first volunteered as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for 10 years and then joined the staff in 2004. She started as an Advocate Manager and worked her way up to Associate Director. We asked her some questions about her time with CASA. Here’s what she had to say:

1. Do you have a favorite CASA moment/story that stands out?

It's hard to pick just one. There are a lot of great moments and stories. Anytime I hear from a child or older youth about the impact their CASA volunteer has had in their life, it's truly heartwarming. Sometimes it’s a child saying his CASA volunteer was the only person who ever remembered his birthday. Sometimes it's more about the advocacy, like when the CASA volunteer assigned to a little girl advocated for her to be adopted by her grandmother. The volunteer spent a lot of time in-person and gathering information to support her recommendation, which was different than what was being proposed by others. The little girl shared that the CASA volunteer was the only person who listened to what she wanted, and she was so happy to be with her true family. You can’t help but feel proud and joyful by those moments.

2. What is your favorite thing about working at CASA?

Being part of a hardworking team whose work has such a positive impact on the lives of the children in our community. And of course, we have the best CASA team around! Each day with CASA of Central Virginia is different and brings new opportunities to learn and grow yourself and others.

3. What is the hardest part about the work we do?

When the CASA team and others supporting a child has worked diligently to do what they feel is best, and the envisioned outcome is not achieved.

4. Do you have a favorite quote?

“To the world you may be one person, but to one person you may be the world.” – Dr. Suess

5. When you are not working, what do you like to do?

When I’m not doing CASA work, I enjoy spending time with my husband, Ricky, my two dogs, River and Brook, and with close friends. Those that know me also know that I love being outside, especially under the warmth of the sunshine and close to water. I also enjoy gardening; planting flowers and working in the vegetable garden. Gardening is a nice distraction from work, while at the same time, it has similarities. In gardening, I try to create an environment for the seeds or plants to begin to grow, then nurture them and watch them flourish and achieve their destiny. The plants and flowers bring beauty, color, vegetables, and provide nourishment for body and soul. That concept parallels with my work at CASA. Everyone needs a nurturing environment, a place to grow, to help them reach their fullest potential. It’s a joy to see people and things fulfill their potential, while at the same time, positively impacting the lives of many others.

Here’s what others had to say about lorna:

“Lorna has been a valued volunteer advocate and staff member for a combined total of 27 years. As our Associate Director, her attention to detail ensures our program operates flawlessly while meeting very strict standards set forth by National CASA and the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services. Lorna is the database expert for our program and many others across Virginia. Her dedication to our program, our volunteers, and the children in our program is so inspiring. We are so lucky to have her here in Central Virginia!” - Allison Stronza, coworker

“Ms. Lorna is such an encourager of people, always believing something good can come from every situation. Her level of dedication to excellence and her dedication to serving our children is reflected in our staff. An organization is only as good as its leadership. CASA is in great hands.” - Kandel Berry, coworker

”Lorna’s knowledge, attention to detail, and compassion make for such a winning combination in her work for CASA. Her dedication to CASA has changed the stories of many local children and families. Her passion for what she does is contagious and I am so thankful and proud to be on a team with her.” -Kelli Diaz, coworker

”Lorna is a fantastic mentor.  She is the best boss but she truly is a fantastic mentor. She doesn’t just give answers she actually problem solves with you and gives a different perception that leads you to find the best solution.  She has a great ability to not only help you figure out an issue, she also teaches you along the way!  She always reminds me that we want this to be a positive experience for everyone involved.” -Joann Williams, coworker

“Lorna is kind, thorough, and helpful. She has much skill and knowledge and I always feel supported by her. She is always available when needed.” -Sharon Harris, coworker 

“After nearly 30 years of advocating for countless abused and neglected children, I am amazed and inspired by your continuing dedication and passion for these children, the CASA organization and volunteers, and this community. I know that I join many with the same sentiments and I remain grateful for knowing and working with you.” -Reggie Pugh, CASA Advocate

“Lorna was the first person that I met at CASA. Her passion for the mission sealed my fate. I went from wondering if I was biting off more than I could chew to how soon can I start?! I am also fortunate to be supervised by Lorna in my volunteer duties. Her unwavering dedication, professionalism, and encouragement over the years has meant the world to me and I continue to be inspired by her example on a daily basis. Happy CASAversary Lorna!” - Pam Ferrel, CASA Advocate