Francesca Ritson has been a CASA volunteer since May, 2015 and has advocated for 28 children in 12 different families. Francesca learned about the CASA program from Kent State University while participating in the pre-law club. She was hooked and knew she needed to get involved. She has always been interested in helping with programs that give back to children such as Blessings in a Backpack, NICU Cuddling, and visiting children in hospitals.
Taking her advocacy one step further, with the support of the CASA program and local foster agency, Francesca organized and hosted a Capes and Crowns Ball at the Akron Children’s Museum, in July of 2019, for 40 children in foster care to experience a magical day. The event was filled with so many smiles, it motivated Francesca to go yet another step further and join the CASA board to continue bringing smiles to the faces of children experiencing abuse and neglect.
Since joining the CASA board in 2019, Francesca has organized numerous recognition efforts for the CASA/GAL volunteers. Additionally, each year, Francesca, has organized the annual CASA/GAL Volunteer Toy Shop that is hosted by the CASA Board and sponsored by the Kimberly S. Denholm Charities. This holiday event allows CASA/GAL Volunteers to "shop" for toys for the children on their cases.
In her free time, Francesca enjoys scrapbooking, spending time with family and friends, and traveling to new cities with her husband.
