Apr 16, 2024 2 min read

CASA for Kids announced the creation of the John DeBlassio CASA Champion Award in honor of John DeBlassio, who died in May 2022. This award will be bestowed annually upon a CASA volunteer, board member, or community member who exemplifies the spirit of advocacy and dedication to the welfare of children, a legacy that DeBlassio embodied throughout his life.

This year, the award will be presented to DeBlassio’s wife, Kathy, at the CASA for Kids Walk for a Child – a mile-long walk to raise awareness and support for child abuse prevention, on April 27 at 8 a.m. at Southpointe Town Center Park.

DeBlassio was an Upper St. Clair High School teacher and advocate for the empowerment of young people. He was renowned for his commitment to championing girls in math long before it gained widespread attention and for his instrumental role in establishing one of the pioneering computer science programs for high school students.

He fostered meaningful connections with his students that endured well beyond their graduation. Together with his wife Kathy, he became involved with CASA for Kids, attending events and learning about the vital role that CASA volunteers play in advocating for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. They were moved by the plight of these children, leading them to become staunch supporters of CASA’s mission.

“John DeBlassio’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication to the well-being of children and young people,” said Kelley Swift, Executive Director at CASA for Kids. “Through the establishment of the John DeBlassio CASA Champion Award, we seek to honor his memory by recognizing individuals who share his passion for advocacy and his commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of vulnerable children.”

To register to participate in the walk, and for more information about the John DeBlassio CASA Champion Award and CASA for Kids, visit www.casawashington.org.