Colorado CASA Conference 2025: A Day of Connection, Learning, and Inspiration

On Friday, September 26th, Colorado CASA proudly hosted its annual conference at an exciting new venue—Junior Achievement – Rocky Mountain. The event brought together more than 200 dedicated CASA staff and volunteers from all 18 local organizations for a day filled with meaningful connection, professional growth, and powerful inspiration.=

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the presenters and exhibitors who generously shared their time and expertise. Among the many highlights were a moving keynote from MelRo and two dynamic panels featuring judges from across Colorado and young adults with lived experience in the child welfare system.

👏 A special shout-out to our incredible Conference Planning Committee—your hard work made this unforgettable day possible!

Congratulations to our 2025 Award Winners!

Picture from left to right: Jill Henderson; Lesley Martin, Leslie Hoffman, Chief Judge Mark A MacDonnell, Vickie Ricord

We’re thrilled to honor this year’s outstanding CASA award winners! Click the winners' names below to hear their nomination story and acceptance speech. These individuals exemplify the passion, dedication, and impact that drive our mission forward—take a moment to celebrate their incredible contributions.

• CASA Advocate of the Year - Leslie Hoffman, CASA Volunteer and Board member, CASA of the Continental Divide

• Staff Member of the Year - Vickie Ricord, Executive Director, CASA of Adams and Broomfield Counties

• Volunteer of the Year - Lesley Martin, Older Youth Program (OYP) Mentor, Child Advocates - Denver CASA

• Judicial Partner of the Year - Chief Judge Mark A. MacDonnell, 16th Judicial District

• Professional Partner of the Year - Jill Henderson, Caseworker

New This Year: Legislator of the Year Award

At this year’s annual awards ceremony, we proudly introduced a new distinction: the Legislator of the Year Award. The inaugural recipient was Representative Lindsay Gilchrist, recognized for her steadfast advocacy on behalf of CASA, children, and families throughout our state. Her leadership has sparked meaningful progress, and it was a privilege to acknowledge her tireless efforts with this well-earned recognition.

Pictured (from left to right): Megan Kilpatrick, Colorado CASA Board Chair; Representative Lindsay Gilchrist; Alicia Economos, Colorado CASA CEO; and Amy Pitlik, Colorado CASA lobbyist.