Volunteer of the Month June 2026

This month, we proudly honor Mr. Frederick Menner as our Volunteer of the Month. Mr. Fred has shown remarkable dedication, completing his CASA training on April 11, 2023, and quickly stepped into the role by taking on Emmanuel's case shortly thereafter. Mr. Fred is a volunteer whose commitment to 10-year-old Emmanuel has been nothing short of extraordinary.

Mr. Fred has supported Emmanuel through both of his foster care placements. Emmanuel first entered care in 2022 due to unsafe conditions in his mother’s home. After a brief reunification in 2024, he returned to care in 2025 for the same reasons. Throughout each transition, Mr. Fred has remained a steady presence in his life.

What sets Mr. Fred apart is not only his consistency but also the compassion, effort, and personal sacrifice he brings to his advocacy. When Emmanuel’s mother missed visits, Mr. Fred still made sure he had transportation and support. When communication with Emmanuel’s sister, Arianna, became difficult, Mr. Fred helped the siblings stay connected through FaceTime and gift exchanges. He recognized how important that bond was, especially because Arianna hopes to adopt Emmanuel and give him a permanent home.

One of the strongest examples of Mr. Fred’s dedication was his trip from Louisiana to Washington State to meet Arianna, visit her home, and confirm that it would be a safe, loving place for Emmanuel. This kind of commitment goes well beyond the typical role of a CASA volunteer, but Mr. Fred made the trip without hesitation because he knew how important it was to Emmanuel’s future. Mr. Fred’s advocacy does not stop there; he has built strong relationships with Emmanuel’s teachers to stay informed about his progress and needs. He made sure Emmanuel received his school-gifted bicycle and bought a helmet and knee pads so he could teach him to ride. When a court hearing conflicted with a cruise he had already planned, Mr. Fred paid additional funds to attend by Zoom so he could continue advocating for Emmanuel. These small but meaningful acts help a child feel seen, valued, and cared for.

Today, Emmanuel is safe in foster care, with the hope that he will eventually live with his sister in Washington. Although the process is long and complex, Mr. Fred continues to support each step by working closely with the DCFS worker, nurturing the sibling bond, and making sure Emmanuel never feels alone.

Mr. Fred Menner truly reflects the spirit of CASA. His compassion, dedication, and steady commitment have made a lasting difference in Emmanuel’s life and in the lives of those who care for him. Thank you, Mr. Fred, for choosing to serve as a CASA volunteer, and congratulations on being named our Volunteer of the Month.

Proud Advocate Supervisor

Sheila L. Scott

*All case names changed for confidentiality reasons*