Citizen of the Week: Rachel Lea is a ‘true champion for kids’

Published 11:00 am Thursday, May 30, 2024

Rachel Lea has been a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for two-and-a-half years, and in that time she has “been the model of what makes an excellent CASA from Day One,” said Chelsea DeWaters, Murray/Whitfield CASA program manager for the Family Support Council.

CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children in the foster care system. Lea was the 2023 Murray/Whitfield CASA Volunteer of the Year.

“She spreads the word about volunteering with CASA,” said DeWaters. “This year, she has presented about what it’s like to be a CASA for both the Emerging Leaders and Leadership Dalton-Whitfield classes of the (Greater Dalton Chamber of Commerce).”

Lea regularly attends CASA in-service trainings and social events, when she is always asking questions, gathering information and encouraging others.

“She demonstrates immense sensitivity, patience and encouragement for parents whose children are in foster care,” said DeWaters. “She is completely dedicated to honoring the feelings and instincts of the child, while also treating their parents with dignity and kindness.”

DeWaters said Lea’s presentations in court are always professional, tactful and persuasive.

“She leaves absolutely no stone unturned in her investigations, and writes objective, thorough and well-stated reports,” DeWaters said. “She is a true champion for kids who have a lot of needs, and says she knows how important it is for such children to have all the advocates they can get, and how critical it is for the foster care system to have all hands on deck to care for children with complex needs well.”

“She is always open to understanding the perspectives of others, always compassionate, and always thoughtful in her approach to others,” said DeWaters. “Her unfailing thoroughness and ability to refrain from jumping to conclusions, keep an open mind, and keep listening, while speaking fearlessly, clearly and persuasively about the needs she sees in each case, have continued to inspire us.”

For her many efforts to help children in need, the Dalton Daily Citizen names Rachel Lea Citizen of the Week.