Advocacy Day 2012

On February 15th, Washington State CASA held our 2012 Advocacy Day in Olympia.  We had a total of 80 registered advocates—program managers, CASAs, board members and staff—spread far and wide. Prior to our day of advocacy, appointments were made with legislators from both the House and the Senate to share the importance and necessity of keeping CASA programs in the budget, as well as to voice our thoughts and concerns on various bills. 

The day started off with a welcome assembly at St. John’s church. WaCASA’s Board Chair Dianne Schultheis and WaCASA Board member and King County councilmember Kathy Lambert gave the welcoming address. Both of these leaders have a great deal of experience and wisdom to share, and they provided important information on what to expect through this process.

Senator Debbie Regala (D, Tacoma) then spoke, providing an update of the mood on campus.  Lobbyist Marcia Fromhold also contributed tremendous education to our advocates, teaching us etiquette for behavior on campus and how to address our legislators. Hearing from these experts brought great confidence to our group.

After we’d made our way to campus, Supreme Court Justice Debra L. Stephens met us at the Temple of Justice, and gave us a backdoor tour to the deliberation room where the judges convene.

Legislator meetings were held throughout the day.  Campus was buzzing with various groups advocating for their cause, and seeing the blue and red colors representing CASAs was both inspiring and powerful.

It was a day of strength in numbers and we made a difference! Thanks to everyone who was part of Advocacy Day 2012!