Fannin County Children's Center Volunteer Banquet

Volunteer Banquet

Jo Willess was named CASA Volunteer of the Year! She is pictured above with her husband Tom.

Jo Willess of Celeste took home the top honor of the night at the recent Volunteer Banquet of the Fannin County Children’s Center. Jo was named the CASA Volunteer of the Year for her work in advocating for abused children in foster care.

CASA Program Director Joyce McGehee and CASA Casework Supervisor Sandy Hood both described Jo’s volunteer efforts over the last eight years. Sandy talked about how each time Jo finished a case, she would say she was going to take a break for awhile, but then would be calling within a few days, asking if there was another case she could take.

In eight years, Jo has advocated for many children in foster care. Some cases ended with children returning home, while others ended with adoption parties. Jo was described as a volunteer who regularly goes above and beyond the call of duty. She has helped speed up the adoption process for many children, some not even on her case, by copying the CPS case file. Jo also helps out with the Children’s Advocacy Center by sitting with children and families before, during and after the forensic interview process.

When accepting her award, Jo shed a few tears of joy and said she loves what she does and believes in what she does.

All of the agency’s volunteers, including board members, were honored at the banquet. Special recognition was given to Stephanie Wood and Marta Schreiber, both of Bonham, for their eleven years of service as CASA volunteers. JoAnne Duncan of Trenton earned her five year service pin. Three year service pins were given to Julie Luton of Bonham, Martha Latimer of Anna, Gary Duncan of Trenton and Don Grammar of Whitewright.

Board President Cindy Bankston welcomed the volunteers, board members, staff and their guests to the banquet at Legacy Ridge Country Club. She praised all of the agency’s volunteers for their dedication and devotion to children.

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