Life’s a Reach

The event: A salute to volunteers who, through Court Appointed Special Advocates, represent abused, neglected and abandoned children in the Orange County court system. CASA’s fifth-anniversary gala was held Saturday at the Sutton Place Hotel in Newport Beach.

Touching the sky: In keeping with the “Reach for the Stars” theme, gold stars accented the centerpieces and the balloons floating in the ballroom. More than 500 guests dined at red, yellow and blue tables decorated with paper handprints made by CASA children. “We always use primary colors in our decor to keep children in mind,” said Lucie Moore, event chairwoman.

Giving children a voice: Orange-based CASA recruits and trains volunteers who represent children in the court system. “Their role is to be advocates as well as a special adult friend and mentor to the child,” said Deborah Abrecht, executive director of CASA.

Honored at the event for their support of CASA were: Fred Port, chairman of the organization’s advisory board, who was named Children’s Champion of 1998; Jerry and Alice Roberts, CASA volunteers of the year; Toshiba Cos. of Southern California; and Judge Pamela Iles.

Quote: “Our involvement with CASA springs from the belief that these kids are the most at-risk [members of] our society,” said Port, who, along with his wife, Linda, became an advocate in 1986.

Faces: Chris Massey, event co-chairman, and his wife, Pam; Ron and Delphine Ainsworth; Don and Patti Boortz; Ely Callaway; Bruce and Jo Corbett; Bill and Joan Cvengros; Richard and Beth Gochnauer; Brian and Anissa Gurnee; Geoff Moore; Nelson and Sharon Rising; Glenn and Susan Schafer; Mike Heather and Teresa Stetler; Billur Wallerich; James and Kim Watson; and Jim and Toni Williams.

Bottom line: The $250-per-person dinner was expected to net $300,000. Proceeds will be used for volunteer recruitment and training. “We have a caseload of 275 children and a waiting list of 200,” Abrecht said.

What’s ahead: CASA will hold its next volunteer training session in April. Advocates undergo 30 hours of training mandated by the state. For information: (714) 935-6124.