Louisiana Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association, in partnership with its member programs, recently honored outstanding individuals for their service to abused and neglected children in Louisiana through CASA. Honorees were recognized at a special Louisiana CASA Awards Night on October 17th at the Old State Capitol in Baton Rouge, LA. Louisiana CASA “Awards of Excellence” highlight extraordinary efforts and the positive impact of contributions made by CASA volunteers, CASA staff and their community partners. Among those honored was Judge Randall L. Bethancourt of the 32nd Judicial District Court in Houma, who was named the “2011 Judge of the Year."  

    Judge Bethancourt presides over many different types of cases, including cases involving abused and neglected children in the foster care system. As adoptive parent himself, child welfare issues are of paramount concern in his court. As an avid supporter of CASA of Terrebonne, Judge Bethancourt faithfully addresses incoming CASA Volunteers at new volunteer training to ensure that they appreciate how valuable their role as a CASA Volunteer is to the children they serve. On hand at the event to accept the award on behalf of Judge Bethancourt, was Laci Melancon, Executive Director of CASA of Terrebonne. 

    The catered event, with nearly 200 in attendance, was hosted by Dr. John Wyble, Louisiana CASA Executive Director, and featured entertainment by local entertainers Tino Thomas and Eric Baskin. Assisting in presenting the awards was Jacqueline M. Wilson, Louisiana CASA Program Operations Director.  Secretary of State Tom Schedler, a CASA volunteer himself, made possible for the event to be held at the Old State Capital. 

    “Louisiana CASA is proud to honor the extraordinary work of ordinary people who commit to making a difference in the lives of children and families all over our state,” offered Dr. Wyble.