Mary Starck of DeKalb County CASA Awarded as 2026 CASA Volunteer of the Year in Georgia
Monday, September 14th, 2026
Mary Starck, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer with DeKalb County CASA, has been chosen for the 2026 Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of the Year Award in Georgia for her outstanding dedication to the organization. Named in honor of the late founding board chair of Georgia CASA, the Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of the Year Award is bestowed to a CASA volunteer that exemplifies the organization’s core values – collaboration, compassion, and accountability – in an outstanding way. Mary was officially awarded at the Georgia CASA Conference in Atlanta on August 22nd.
Since taking the oath to become a CASA volunteer in 2013, Mary has been a steadfast and compassionate advocate for the best interests of children experiencing foster care. Over the past 12 years, she has served 14 cases involving 21 children, advocating through reunifications with parents, adoptions, guardianships, and other permanent living arrangements for the children she has served.
Mary approaches every case with diligence, professionalism, and a deep commitment to understanding and meeting each child’s unique needs. Her thoughtful juvenile court reports, consistent visits, and calm, empathetic presence have made her a trusted advocate among children, caregivers, and court partners alike.
Beyond her casework, Mary is a respected leader and mentor within the CASA organization. A two-time Volunteer of the Month and 2022 Volunteer of the Year with DeKalb County CASA, she regularly supports volunteer training, participates in Georgia CASA events, and helps recruit new advocates in her community.
For her exceptional advocacy, leadership, and unwavering dedication to children and families, Mary Starck exemplifies the very best of CASA volunteerism, making her a very deserving recipient of the 2026 Karen N. Sibley CASA Volunteer of the Year award.
