Board Spotlight: John Gerdes, Board President

CASA of Tarrant County is proud to welcome John Gerdes as our new Board President. John brings a deep commitment to children, families, and our local community—and an understanding of both the urgency and impact of CASA’s work.

A Message of Support for Our Volunteers

“I am humbled by the commitment our volunteers make to our child clients. I cannot think of a more direct and meaningful way to positively shape the life of a child who has experienced the trauma of being separated from their family—from everything they know. Our volunteers help carry the weight of that trauma alongside these children, leading to more positive outcomes for the most vulnerable in our community. The gift of themselves to our clients is nothing short of heroic.”

Why John Is Involved with CASA

John is involved with CASA because the organization addresses the ongoing crisis of child abuse and neglect happening right here in Tarrant County. While many organizations focus on prevention, CASA focuses on the immediate reality—supporting children who have already been removed from their homes. Each month, 45–50 children enter the foster care system locally, and CASA is there to advocate for them in the here and now.

What First Inspired His Involvement

John was introduced to CASA by a close friend and fellow board member, Debbie Cooley. While he was immediately moved by CASA’s mission, the work became deeply personal due to his wife’s own experience as a foster child. She had a CASA volunteer who helped guide her through that difficult chapter of her life—an experience that reinforced just how powerful this advocacy can be.

What Keeps Him Coming Back

CASA of Tarrant County is one of the few local nonprofits addressing urgent needs directly and immediately. Yet, the demand continues to outpace the number of available volunteers. John is focused on growing revenue so CASA can strengthen its infrastructure and ensure that every child in need has a CASA advocate by their side.

A Message to Potential Supporters

John emphasizes that every form of support—financial or volunteer—has a compounding effect. Currently, 38 staff members support 463 volunteers serving 870 children. In other words, each staff member helps support the well-being of 22 children. Contributions from the community help move CASA closer to its goal of serving 100% of the children in Tarrant County who need a CASA.

Why Community Support Matters

Many of the challenges communities face—crime, substance abuse, homelessness—are generational. Children learn what is “normal” from their environment. CASA’s work helps reduce the trauma of growing up in abusive or neglectful situations and interrupts that cycle by offering stability, advocacy, and positive examples. John believes deeply that every child deserves a loving environment and a chance to unlearn unhealthy versions of “normal.”