Friends of CASA
Supporting Advocacy Through Community Engagement
Friends of CASA is a dedicated fundraising and support board committed to strengthening the work of CASA/GAL of Hancock County. This group of passionate community members works behind the scenes to ensure that our volunteer advocates and staff have the resources they need to amplify the voices of abused and neglected children in the courtroom.
What They Do
The Friends of CASA board focuses on fundraising, outreach, and awareness-building. They organize special events, secure donations, and help build partnerships with local businesses, organizations, and individuals who believe in our mission. Whether it’s planning a benefit, promoting CASA, or hosting volunteer appreciation events, their efforts directly support the day-to-day work of advocacy.
Their Purpose
The purpose of Friends of CASA is to enhance the sustainability and visibility of the CASA/GAL program. While CASA volunteers speak up for children in court, Friends of CASA speak up for the program in the community. Their work ensures we can continue to recruit, train and support volunteers – and, ultimately, that every child in Hancock County has a voice in court and a chance at a brighter future.
Meet the Friends of CASA Board
Abbie Acord, Board Chair
Abbie was born in Grand Forks, North Dakota. She has been a Findlay resident for 35 years and knows our community well. She is a 2003 graduate from Findlay High School and is now married with two children, ages 16 and 13. Abbie earned an Applied Science: Human Services degree from Cuyahoga Community College. She was a former banking manager for over 6 years before transitioning to working with emancipating foster youth and the unhoused population in Hancock County for 5 years. Abbie is certified in Youththrive, Crisis Intervention and Mental Health First Aid. Not only does Abbie serve as the Chair of the Friends of CASA board, she has also served on various committees and board such as the ADAMHS board and is a former chair of the Peer Support Advisory Board of Hancock County. In her free time, Abbie enjoys reading, paint-by-numbers, and spending time with family.
Why Abbie chose to join the Friends of CASA board: “CASA is deeply meaningful to me due to my work in the foster care system and as a parent. I believe it provides a critical support person to ensure children’s needs are met during tough times.”
Krista Pruitt, Vice Chair
Krista is a long time Friend of CASA. Krista and her husband moved to Hancock County in 2016. She previously spent 7 years in the non-profit social service and public health world before she decided to stay at home with her children. Krista holds a Bachelor’s degree from Ohio State University and is the mother of four children, all aged 7 and under! Krista volunteered with CASA/GAL of Hancock County for 2 years and then joined the board in 2018 when she was no longer able to volunteer. In her spare time, she enjoys reading and crocheting.
Krista is passionate about CASA’s role in providing a safe, caring adult to children during uncertainty and giving them a voice.
Phil Brock, Treasurer
After over 20 years in the corporate world, Phil shifted his focus to coaching and mentoring, aiming to directly impact the wellbeing of others. Phil is a coach with the Financial Opportunities Center, where he provides financial and employment coaching, helping individuals achieve their goals. Phil works with individuals across various age groups and backgrounds, and he believe everyone can benefit from extra support at different points in their lives.
Phil decided to become a board member because he recognizes the importance of fair and compassionate advocacy for vulnerable populations, especially children.
Alyssa Kaseman, Secretary
Alyssa is a stay-at-home mom of three with a background as an Intervention Specialist and has worked with children that have diverse needs. Alyssa’s experience working with children in foster care has given her a deep appreciation for CASA’s mission and the importance of advocating for children in need. As the Secretary for the Friends of CASA board, she is committed to rebuilding the board and strengthening connections between Friends of CASA, CASA/GAL of Hancock County, and the community. Alyssa is proud to support Friends of CASA’s mission and is excited about the positive impact the board will continue to have for children in our community.
Erin Dillinger
Erin has lived in Findlay for most of her life. She is a wife and a mother to three young girls. Erin holds a Bachelor’s degree in Human Development with a focus on early childhood. She has working in various settings with families and young children. Erin is a former Case Manager for Open Arms, where she provided a safe space for supervised visits between children and their parents. This role allowed her to work along side various agencies, including CASA.
Erin joined the Friends of CASA board to reconnect with the community and use her knowledge and desire to advocate for children who need it most.
Get Involved
Join Friends of CASA
Are you passionate about helping kids in our community? Do you enjoy planning events, fundraising, or community networking?
We invite you to apply to serve on the Friends of CASA board!
Download and email aibell@co.hancock.oh.us
Support Our Work
Even if you’re not ready to join the board, you can help amplify our mission.