Question 1

Kerma Hopewell | Program Compliance Manager | Kerma@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Kerma Hopewell attended Indiana University Southeast and majored in psychology. Kerma worked at Kroger for 35 years where she learned to resolve issues for countless problems and found joy in helping people have a little bit better of a day. Kerma says she believes the “small things” matter! She became a volunteer in 2011 and was hired on staff in 2014. Kerma says her heart has always been drawn to the vulnerable in our society. Kerma emphasizes that in advocating for the best interests of the child, we can empower the whole family by ensuring they receive and know of all the services, resources and support available in our community. One thing Kerma has learned is that some people in our community do not reaching their potential due to circumstances they have no control over, and it would be a shame to lose those talents, gifts, and value. She considers herself very blessed to be part of the program and to be surrounded by the wonderful people CASA works with and for.

Question 2

Courtney Roberts | Advocacy Manager | Courtney@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Courtney is in her senior year completing her bachelor’s degree in Human Services with a concentration in Child and Family Services. She has worked in elementary education as well as for the State of Indiana assisting applicants with Medicaid and Food Stamp resources. Courtney became a CASA in May of 2019, first working as the Volunteer Coordinator in Washington County and later transferring to Floyd County to work as a Staff Advocate. Courtney became involved with CASA because she saw a huge need for strengthening families. Courtney believes children thrive in environments of stability and love, as well as with their parents when possible. When it is not safe for children to remain with their parents, she believes they need an unbiased voice advocating for their best interests.

Question 3

Carrie Faith | Case Coordinator | Carrie@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Carrie holds an associate degree in Hospitality Management. In 2007 Carrie began working in Special Education within the school system. She later went on to become the Enrichment Coordinator for a non- profit in Louisville that works with adults with disabilities. In that position Carrie taught reading and continuing education and became involved in advocacy for people with physical and intellectual disabilities. Carrie became a CASA in November of 2019 when she joined the team as a Staff Advocate. Carrie and her husband were foster parents for several years and in that time she came to quickly understand the need for children to have a voice in the system. Carrie believes CASA provides an essential part in the lives of children and families in crisis.

Question 4

Dawn Adkins | Triage Specialist | Dawn@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Prior to moving to the New Albany area in 2015, Dawn was the tubing buyer for a steel company in Indianapolis. She also ran two small family businesses. Dawn became a CASA volunteer in October 2017 and served on many cases until acquiring her position as Triage Specialist in August of 2020. Dawn says she has always been pulled toward helping those who cannot help themselves, especially children, making CASA the perfect fit for her.

Question 5

Jessica Staten | Executive Director | Jessica@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Jessica Tandy Staten has joined the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Floyd County as its new Executive Director. Staten most recently served as Director of Communications at the Homeless Coalition of Southern Indiana, where she held multiple roles including Director of Operations. Staten, who holds a business degree from Butler University, brings years of private and nonprofit sector experience including five years leading program development, fundraising efforts, grant writing, donor relations, volunteer recruitment, and marketing/communication activities for non-profit organizations. Staten is responsible for leading the day-to-day operations of CASA of Floyd County, recruiting CASA volunteers, improving awareness of the organization and the plight of the children it serves, and raising funds to sustain the organization.

Question 6

Alaina Pryor | Case Coordinator | Alaina@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Alaina attended Sullivan University and received her Bachelors degree in Criminal Justice. She has been working with children for the past thirteen years, serving in various volunteer and paid positions. Alaina is passionate about advocating for people who cannot advocate for themselves, which drew her to the mission of CASA. Alaina believes that every child deserves stability, care, and a space where they can thrive.

Question 7

Lauren Broderick | Volunteer Coordinator | Lauren@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Lauren holds a masters degree in education from the University of Florida. She worked as an elementary school teacher in Title I schools where her passion for underserved communities developed. She has spent the last two and a half years working at a non-profit in Phoenix in the volunteer coordinator position, focusing on volunteer recruitment, care, and appreciation. Lauren is ardent about serving the volunteers at CASA who tirelessly serve children who are experiencing trauma, giving them a voice.

Question 8

Monica Elam | Case Coordinator | Monica@floydcountycasa.org

Answer

Monica has an associate degrees in early childhood education and in human services through Ivy Tech. She has worked previously as a preschool teacher and most recently as a home based caseworker and visit supervisor for families in need. Monica has a passion for giving a voice to those who don’t feel heard. Monica is dedicated to ensuring the best possible outcomes for the children and families that we serve.

CASA OF FLOYD COUNTY STAFF