Beginning August 1, Deidre Hollands will serve as the new program operations director for Georgia CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates).

As the program operations director, Deidre will lead comprehensive affiliate support and services for the CASA network to improve quality advocacy and effectiveness as well as foster meaningful relationships and collaboration with affiliate leadership and state partners to further the mission and integrity of the CASA network.

Deidre is no stranger to CASA, having served in Cherokee County as a CASA volunteer in 2000, a volunteer coordinator for two years, a CASA director for ten years, and as the founding executive director of The Childrens Haven for the last four years, which is a center for family visitation, the local CASA program, and a convening and collection space for the larger community interested in supporting children and families in child welfare.

Deidre is widely known across the CASA network for sharing her expertise through trainings, ongoing support, and all-around general advice. She has led fundraising and community engagement trainings, new director orientations and mentorship, provided grant support, represented CASA at state-level meetings, and served as a COPs representative on the Georgia CASA board.

Deidres natural ability of engaging others in the CASA mission is contagious. Her genuine interest and personalized approach make an immediate connection, and while seemingly effortless, are actually a combination of thoughtful preparation, research, experience, and skill.

As a life-long victim advocate, Deidres work is driven by her commitment and compassion for children and families. She has long recognized that the success of individual affiliates benefits the entire CASA network. Deidre has been at the forefront of local and state initiatives that seek to strengthen the leadership within the network, has championed efforts that recognize and recruit volunteers, and has informed and pushed for training and support that improves quality advocacy.

Deidre is a continual learner who brings a wealth of experience, compassion, and innovation to the CASA network. While this position is based out of the Georgia CASA office, Deidre is looking forward to traveling the state in service to local affiliates.