CASA TO HONOR DREXEL HILL, PA WOMAN FOR HER DEDICATION TO LOCAL CHILDREN

Joan Clark of Drexel Hill, PA will be recognized for her dedication and hard work helping local children who have been abused and neglected. Next month, CASA Delaware County will honor a total of four local volunteers who continually advocate for children in the family court system.

2014 Gala Supporting Child Advocacy
Friday, December 5, 2014
6:00 pm–11:00 pm
Drexelbrook Corporate Center, Drexel Hill

Joan Clark expressed a special interest in working with teenaged youth from day one. Having raised four children who are now all adults, Clark knew firsthand about the challenges that come with raising adolescents, but she was not afraid. She realized teenagers involved in the foster care system deal with even more complicated issues than teens growing up in loving families.

Clark has worked tirelessly with Cherrelle, a teen who has an extensive history of mental health hospitalizations and runaway behavior. Cherrelle has attempted suicide multiple times and is has a suspected history of sexual abuse. She has had multiple placements including hospitalizations, detention centers, residential facilities, and group homes. She once assaulted a teacher and subsequently entered into the Juvenile Delinquency system.

Clark has attended nearly every court hearing with Cherrelle, and has worked diligently to advocate for the teen’s needs, including increased communication with family, participation in therapy, and obtaining clothing. Clark visits Cherelle often to keep her informed about decisions made and tries to encourage her to be an active participant in meetings and hearings. Clark is not afraid to reach out to family members or other providers in the community to ensure Cherrelle’s rehabilitation.

Professionals working with Clark commend her “consistent presence on Cherrelle’s case” and say she’s an “amazing advocate.”

When asked when she does her best, Cherrelle said “When I’m around people who care,” and that includes Joan Clark.

Nearly 1000 abused and neglected children were placed into the Delaware County Family Court system in 2013. Just 184 of those children had a CASA to help them find permanent, loving homes. That’s far too many local children that are left without the kind of hope a CASA volunteer provides.

Each year, CASA’s grand Gala event increases awareness and raises funds for its vital organization.