‘Clairice Hetzler Advocacy for Children’ Award Winner Announced

Advocacy Network for Children is happy to announce that this year’s recipient of the “Clairice Hetzler Advocacy for Children” award is Sherry Centanni.  Sherry served as a CASA volunteer for 20 years.  During that time, she spoke on behalf of 12 abused or neglected children in the court system.  Two of those cases were open for 5 years. “Sherry has been a true advocate for these children as well as a supporter of the agency” said Danielle Buss, CASA Manager.  “Her compassion and commitment has truly made a difference” she said.

This award is named after Clairice Hetzler who retired from the agency in 2016 after 18 years.  Under Hetzler’s leadership and guidance, the agency grew from one program, Adams County CASA, to expand its CASA program as well as adding accredited Children’s Advocacy Centers covering 9 counties in West Central Illinois.

The award is given to an individual or business who is a true advocate for abused and neglected children.  The award was first awarded to Hetzler in 2017 following her retirement.  Other recipients include Bob Bergman, CASA Volunteer, in 2018 and Terry Gibson, Adams County State’s Attorneys office, in 2019.

The award will be presented at the agency’s annual fundraising dinner on March 6, 2020 at the Ambiance in Quincy.  Tickets are still available at $50 per person or a table of eight for $400.

If you are interested in attending, please call the Advocacy Network for Children office at 217-223-2272.  Tickets are required in advance of the dinner.