CASA for Kids recognizes Patti Ahrberg as May Volunteer of the Month

Story and photo provided by CASA for Kids

Patti Ahrberg was one of the very first CASA volunteers to complete training in 1991 when the program was established in Payne County by Cindy Pilgrim.  During her 25 year tenure, she has served 18 cases, and a total of 32 children.  She has received many local, regional, and state awards for her dedication and service.

Patti was born in Winfield, Kansas where she graduated High School. She earned her degree in elementary education at Oklahoma A&M, now Oklahoma State University.  She married Bill Ahrberg, and moved to Cushing in 1960.  She has three children:  Bill, an attorney in Cushing, Lynda (Mrs. Paul Martin) now living in Stillwater, and Rick who has Ahrberg Milling Company in Cushing.  Patti has fourteen grandchildren and 9 great grandchildren.

CASA for Kids is a nonprofit organization that recruits, screens, trains and supports community volunteers who advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in juvenile deprived court.  CASA for Kids serves both Payne and Logan Counties, with offices in Stillwater and Guthrie.

A child is assigned to the juvenile deprived docket when a petition based on Department of Human Services (DH) confirmation of a report of abuse or neglect is filed with the court.  In 2015, Payne County had 266 substantiated cases of abuse or neglect, and 124 children in out-of-home placement.  The large number of children under the auspices of the Juvenile Court makes it very difficult for any of the parties to the case to have consistent direct contact with the child, and those caring for and treating the child.  CASA volunteers are assigned to these cases.

CASA for Kids is actively recruiting individuals interested in becoming CASA volunteers.  Training classes will be offered in June, August and October 2016.  For more information, please call 405-624-2242 or visit www.casaforkids.com