Jim Di Ciaula Elected to National CASA Leadership Council
Geneva, IL – CASA Kane County is proud to announce that Jim Di Ciaula, Executive Director, has been appointed to the National Leadership Council (NLC) of the National CASA/GAL Association. This prestigious appointment recognizes Di Ciaula’s commitment to children and families and their leadership within the CASA/GAL network.
The National Leadership Council was established to ensure the voice of local and state programs is heard at the highest level. It serves as the network advisory committee to the National CASA/GAL Board of Trustees and plays a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction and priorities of the national organization.
“We are incredibly proud of Jim for being selected for this honor,” said Jim Chakires, Board Chair. “His passion for child advocacy and proven leadership at the state and local level make him an outstanding representative for our network.”
The Role and Purpose of the National Leadership Council
The Council is comprised of up to 15 appointed leaders from across the United States who represent a cross-section of the CASA/GAL network—spanning geographic regions, program structures, and leadership councils, including the State Leadership Council (SLC), Urban (ULC), Rural (RLC), Tribal (TLC), and Suburban (SuLC) councils.
As a Council member, Di Ciaula will:
- Represent the interests and perspectives of state and local CASA/GAL programs;
- Advise the National Board of Trustees and CASA/GAL staff on emerging issues and opportunities across the network;
- Review and approve the Association’s Annual Grants Policy;
- Contribute to initiatives and subcommittees focused on network development and sustainability;
- Champion collaboration and accountability across the CASA/GAL network;
- Attend bi-monthly meetings and participate in the National CASA/GAL Annual Conference.
Membership to the NLC is for a one-year term, with members eligible for reappointment through their respective leadership councils. NLC members are expected to maintain active involvement and uphold the mission: supporting court-appointed volunteers who advocate for a child’s best interest and work to strengthen families.
“I’m honored to join the National Leadership Council and contribute to strengthening our national CASA/GAL network,” said Di Ciaula. “It’s a privilege to elevate the voices of local programs and ensure every child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe, permanent home.”
Jim Di Ciaula is also the Chair of the National CASA Suburban Leadership Council as a sub-committee of this main council, and has been in that role for the past year.
About National CASA/GAL
The National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association for Children supports a network of 939 state organizations and local programs in 49 states and the District of Columbia. CASA/GAL volunteers are trained to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
For more information about the National CASA/GAL Association and the National Leadership Council, visit www.nationalcasagal.org