About CASA Heroes
Selecting CASA Heroes is always a difficult task. Every CASA volunteer is a hero to an abused and neglected child. All Payne County CASA volunteers do so much just by opening their hearts and donating their time to advocate for children in Payne County.CASA Names Heroes of 2nd & 3rd Quarter 2009 
Natalie Newby, CASA Hero of the 2nd Quarter
Shannon Bush, CASA Hero of the 3rd Quarter
Last April two volunteers from Yale joined forces with the Payne County CASA Program as Court Appointed Special Advocates, better known as CASAs. Natalie Newby and Shannon Bush have since become steadfast child advocates who have provided top notch advocacy on behalf of five abused and neglected children.
Natalie Newby, CASA Hero of the 2nd Quarter, is married to husband, Randell Newby, Minister at Yale Assembly of God. “Randell has always been supportive of my role in CASA. He is always flexible and encouraging,” said Natalie. Randell and Natalie have three children, Britni, 18, Brooke, 15, and Joshua, 12. Natalie says that her entire family is very supportive of CASA and her volunteer work. Natalie enjoys reading, camping, teaching Sunday school and Children’s Church.
Shannon Bush, CASA Hero of the 3rd Quarter, is married to husband, Justin Bush. Justin is a SalesRepresentative for Ahrberg Milling Company. “He is super supportive; otherwise I doubt I would be able to do this. When I have a CASA visit or appointment, or when I am working all night on a court report, he isalwayswilling to step up and do whatever needs to be done around the house or with the kids. I’m blessed with a great partner,” said Shannon. When asked about children Shannon said, “We have two sons. Braden is 10 years old and Joby just turned 8. They are priceless! Don’t even get me started….” Shannon says she loves to read in her spare time, when she’s able to find some. Clearly both are serious and dedicated about their role as a CASA volunteer which is precisely why each was named a CASA Hero. “Natalie has a very difficult case because there are many different facets to it,” said Carmen Miller, CASA Program Director. “Despite so many frustrating and disappointing turns in her case she has always remained dedicated and focused. I have been very impressed by her ability to remain objective even in the most challenging situations.” When asked how she thought she has helped her CASA kids Natalie said, “By trying to keep the court focused on the child.” “Natalie has done just that. In a sea of emotions, changing situations, and numerous people involved with varying opinions Natalie has done nothing short of a spectacular job in keeping the court informed about the facts of the case and focused on the best interest of the children,” said Miller. When asked what Natalie had to say about the CASA program in general she said, “The CASA program is a great program. CASA is very effective in advocating for children. I believe that without the CASA program, many children would fall through the cracks of the system.” “Shannon has had frustrations on her cases too,” said Miller. “Shannon had problems scheduling meetings with her CASA kids and keeping up with the location of mother on her case. She was patient and creative and just stuck with it until she was able to visit the kids and speak with the mom. She is very committed and thorough and that’s exactly the kind of advocacy these kids deserve and need,” said Miller. In regards to CASA Shannon said, “CASA is a great program! Every child should have the benefit of a CASA to advocate for them.” When asked how she felt she has helped her CASA children Shannon said, “I have tried to be thorough and informative in my investigating and my reporting so that no stone goes unturned.” When asked what truly moved each of them to act and do this volunteer work Natalie said, “After hearing a CASA volunteer speak at our church, I began to understand how important it was for each child that is in DHS custody to have someone speak for them. Being deeply involved in Children’s Ministry for most of my adult life, and seeing and hearing many situations in which children have to endure, I decided it was time for me to take another step in making a difference.” For Shannon it was hearing an account from a 12 year old child abuse survivor. “I heard Shelby’s Story in my church and when I came face to face with the realities of child abuse in my own community I knew that I had no good excuse not to help if I could. I was blessed with great parents who loved and cared for me and I believe a certain sense of responsibility comes with being blessed,” said Shannon. 
Two great ladies with such great families make for great volunteers! Natalie and Shannon both work for Yale Drug. Because they both have strong commitments to their CASA children and their volunteer responsibilities they work together on their schedules so each can do their respective duties. When asked how they find time to volunteer while juggling their busy schedules Shannon said, “That really is the hardest part of volunteering. But, it all works out! I have a great employer who allows me flexibility in my work schedule and a great family that is understanding and cooperative. And, I have a calendar to keep track of it all!” Natalie agreed and said, “My family, my church, and my workplace have been very supportive and flexible, and that plays a big role. Shannon, who is also a CASA volunteer, works the same position as I do, and we change schedules on court dates. I try to devote one full day a week to CASA work. Sometimes it is hard to do, but it is very important to me to be effective and do the best that I can.”
While Shannon’s CASA kids will soon be reunited with their mother, a hopeful success story, Natalie’s case is also steering towards permanency for her CASA children through family placement. “Both of these women have made a significant impact on the lives of these children in different ways,” said Miller. “Natalie provided the court with critical facts needed in order for the judge to make sound decisions regarding the children’s future. Shannon monitored her case and always made sure the needs and safety of the children were a priority by checking everything thoroughly. Shannon was also able to offer encouragement to the young mother on her case,” said Miller. “Neither Natalie or Shannon think they are heroes nor do they feel like heroes. That’s because what they’ve done is offer a strong, consistent voice for these children. Everyday heroes don’t necessarily save burning buses. The investigating, reporting, observing, listening, and communicating they did on their cases did impact and steer the case, the children’s lives, more than they know. It’s like wearing a seat belt. You know it’s there to help save your life. There is no guarantee that it will but the fact that its intention is to help keep you safe offers you a sense of security. You’re just not loose in the car if it wrecks. That’s what they’ve done for these children. They made sure the children weren’t just loose in the system and that their safety and best interest were paramount” said Miller.
Children are waiting and CASA needs more volunteers like Natalie and Shannon to be a child’s voice in court. Free CASA training is April 14th and 15th. Please contact the CASA office for an application and more information at 405-624-2242, info@casaforkids.com or visit www.casaforkids.com Watch the, “Everyday Heroes,” video on CASA’s homepage to learn more. CASA is a 501(c)3 charitable organization that is funded by grants, fundraising, and donations. CASA is a Stillwater Area United Way agency.
