Karen Biernacki - Executive Director
While taking a Social Work class at Purdue University North Central in 1989, my research led me to National CASA and the concept of utilizing volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children. In January of 1991, I became the first Director of the agency. I received a degree from Indiana University in 1999 and a Mediation License in 2002 from Valparaiso University. Currently, I am a member of the Child Abuse Advisory Team, Family Court Advisory Board, Juvenile Court Advisory Board, the Domestic Violence Task Force, Women in Management, Kiwanis, and the League of Women Voters. I also serve as an appointed member to the Indiana Commission on Abused and Neglected Children and Their Families and the Advisory Commission for GAL/CASA to the Indiana Supreme Court.
Contact - kbiernacki@lpcasa.com
Contact - kbiernacki@lpcasa.com
Rachelle Goheen - CASA Case Manager
I am Rachelle Goheen, the CASA Case Manager. I have been working with CASA since February 2004. Before coming to CASA, I worked in the field with both adult and children of disabilities. I have my certification for Employment Specialist through Indiana University. Prior to coming to La Porte County, I worked with the Title I Program and The Covered Bridge Special Education District, in both Vigo County School Corporation and South Vermillion School Corporation. I completed my Educational Surrogate Parent Certification in August 2006, through the Youth Law T.E.A.M., Indiana Department of Education and Child Advocates, INC. I have also worked in the Banking Industry for many years. Consider volunteering. We are always in need of strong people with a compassionate heart to help our children's voices be heard. In La Porte County there is a need for volunteers, we do have children being abused in your own neighborhoods.
TAKE A STAND HELP STOP CHILD ABUSE!!!
Contact me at - rgoheen@lpcasa.com
TAKE A STAND HELP STOP CHILD ABUSE!!!
Contact me at - rgoheen@lpcasa.com
Cheryl Highsmith - Harmony House Program Coordinator
I started working with Harmony House/CASA in February 2005. I first began working as a visit supervisor, then was promoted to my current position as Harmony House Program Coordinator in September 2005. I love working with families and watching their interaction.
Before coming to Harmony House I worked at Christian Haven, Inc. working with
at-risk youth for eleven years.
Contact me at - chighsmith@lpcasa.com
Before coming to Harmony House I worked at Christian Haven, Inc. working with
at-risk youth for eleven years.
Contact me at - chighsmith@lpcasa.com
Lori Foglesong - Administrative Assistant
Visit Supervisors
Lesley
I was born in Illinois and moved to La Porte when I was four years old. I went to Crichfield Elementary, Boston Middle School and graduated from La Porte High School. I was married in 1997 and have two children ages 13 and 10. I have worked at an elementary school and started working with Harmony House in 2005.
Nancy
Laura
Angel
I am a Purdue University graduate and an active CASA volunteer. I enjoy working with families to insure a safe, healthy future.
Banana
In February, 2008, I was adopted by Harmony House/CASA Program from the Maple City Animal Hospital. This is my fifth and forever home now. I have lots of friends that come and visit me on a regular basis and I love my new family. I have even been a great mouse deterrent so I am working for my keep.
