Founded in 2015, CASA of Berks County held its 7th Annual Meeting on May 9, 2022 and announced the election of new officers, Nikolas Capitano, President; Kathleen Felker, Immediate Past President, Tyler Miller, Vice President; Janell Harakel, Treasurer and Ashley Mills Seaman, Secretary. In addition to cherishing the mission of the organization the officers are invested in the growth and longevity of CASA of Berks County.
"When I first joined the CASA of Berks County Board of Directors in 2020, I never imagined we would be where we are today as an organization." Said newly elected Board President, Nikolas D. Capitano, Esq. "Our team has overcome so many obstacles these last two years, and despite a few setbacks, it has had more successes, most notably being the steady increase of volunteer advocates joining our ranks along with the number of children we serve each year. These accomplishments are just a few that make me proud, and thankful, for the opportunity I was given years ago by leaders past to be a member of Berks County's CASA organization."
Kathleen Felker, steps down as President and joins the Executive Committee as the Immediate Past President. Reflecting on her four-year history with CASA Berks, Kathy commented, "My involvement in 2018 began out of general interest in the organization. Becoming involved resulted in a move from an interest to a passion. During the time I served as President of the board, I saw growth and expansion in CASA's ability to advocate for the children that don't have a voice."
Tyler Miller, a Berks County Realtor and member of the Board of Directors for the Reading-Berks Association of Realtors, was elected Vice President. "I look forward to contributing to this organization as its Vice President. Our work as an organization directly impacts the community, but more specifically, children, the most vulnerable of our community members."
Janell Harakel, MBA, elected Treasurer, brings years of professionalism and community involvement to the CASA Board, and served this past year as Board Secretary. Janell commented, "It is a pleasure to support the work of this organization, vital to the foster children of our community. Special thanks to the departing Board members for their dedication and service – they will be missed. We welcome our new members during this time of growth. Together we can advance the mission of CASA."
Ashley Mills Seaman, elected to the position of Board Secretary, is an entrepreneur running one business, Pawsitively Passionate Pet Care, and studying to start up a second business, providing Integrative Healing Arts Counseling. Ashley brings her business skills to the Executive Committee of CASA Berks Board of Directors. "I am passionate about the mission of CASA." said Ashley, "And look forward to serving on its Board of Directors."
