HOPKINSVILLE, KY – CASA by the Lakes Volunteer Advocate, Martha Steil was honored as the 2025 All-Star Community Connector by The Kentucky CASA Network. The Kentucky CASA Network is the state association for Court Appointed Special Advocates with a mission to support the development, growth, and continuation of local CASA programs in Kentucky.

Martha Steil, Human Resources Director for United Southern Bank has been a CASA volunteer for almost five years. She started under the CASA of Christian County program and has continued advocating and speaking up for the local program through the transition to CASA by the Lakes.

Jessica Foust, Executive Director of CASA by the Lakes says, “Martha is truly deserving of the Community Connector Award. As CASA by the Lakes expanded into Christian County, we were stepping into a new community without established relationships, which can be both exciting and intimidating. Martha immediately stepped up, helping us build meaningful connections and offering support during this time of transition. We are deeply grateful to the five volunteers who remained with us through this expansion, and because of their commitment, and Martha’s leadership, we are proud to now have a physical office in Christian County at the Virginia Place Building, 1910 South Virginia Street, Suite 98, along with a full-time Advocate Supervisor, Nancy Carter. Martha’s dedication embodies the spirit of community connection and service that this award represents.”

The recognition comes as 178 Christian County children were involved in abuse, dependency, and neglect court cases in 2025, underscoring the ongoing need for trained volunteer advocates. National studies show that children with a CASA volunteer achieve safe, permanent placements more quickly and are 50% less likely to reenter the child welfare system.

| RELATED STORY: CASA of Christian County shutting down local office after 6 years

About CASA by the Lakes

CASA by the Lakes recruits, trains, and supports quality volunteers who advocate in the court system for the timely and safe placement of dependent, abused and neglected children in Christian, Marshall, and Calloway Counties. You can apply to be a CASA volunteer, donate to CASA by the Lakes or learn how to partner with CASA by the Lakes at casabythelakes.org.

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