Rockwall, TX – May 12, 2025 – Lone Star CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) hosted its annual Volunteer Appreciation Banquet on May 3, 2025, at Divine Peace Church in Rockwall, marking the beginning of National Foster Care Month. The event served as a heartfelt tribute to CASA’s Volunteer Advocates—individuals who make a powerful impact in the lives of children who have experienced abuse and neglect as they journey through the foster care and legal systems.
The evening was filled with warmth and gratitude as Lone Star CASA recognized the commitment and compassion of its dedicated volunteers over the past year. Advocates shared stories, offered support, and connected over dinner. Before the awards ceremony, guests paused to reflect on the profound difference CASA volunteers make in the lives of the children they serve. The banquet also highlighted major milestones reached by volunteers and honored both the Board Member and Volunteer Advocate of the Year.
Volunteer Advocate of the Year was awarded to Irene Eckenroth. Her unwavering commitment was most evident in her advocacy for sibling sisters, whose case she took on in October 2021. Irene remained a steadfast presence for the sisters despite some challenges—including the termination of parental rights and the complexities of long-term foster care. Over the course of the case, she logged more than 723 hours and traveled 15,130 miles, often making monthly visits that required driving hundreds of miles at a time. Beyond travel and time, Irene actively held child welfare agencies accountable, managed transitions between case workers, supported one youth through juvenile detention, and consistently submitted detailed monthly reports to CPS and the child’s attorney. Operations Director Elizabeth Mosman shared, “Irene’s dedication has never wavered. Her tenacity, empathy, and quiet strength are exactly what CASA advocacy is all about.”
Board Member of the Year was awarded to Don Prentiss, Don has served with distinction as Treasurer and now Vice President, always bringing calm, reason, and a clear voice to the Lone Star CASA Board of Directors. CASA is grateful for Don’s contributions serving on the board and for his sponsorship of several key events, such as Bunco & Bubbles. Sandra Ownby, President of the Lone Star CASA Board of Directors, asserted, “Don’s steady leadership, tireless dedication, and behind-the-scenes impact have made him an invaluable asset to our organization.”
Lone Star CASA welcomes community members to get involved in their mission of elevating the voices of children experiencing abuse and neglect. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please visit lonestarcasa.org and sign up for Lone Star CASA’s next information session on May 8, 2025.
CASA Volunteer Irene Eckenroth, left, and Child Advocacy Specialist Tahj Walker, right.
President of the CASA Board of Directors Sandra Ownby, left, and Board Member of the Year Don Prentiss, right.
Submitted by Mariela Lomeli, Marketing Director, Lone Star CASA
