Monica Martinez is honored to serve as the Program Director for CASA of Mariposa County. She began her work at CASA in 2016 and has continued to be actively involved in the development and growth of CASA’s programs. Monica started on the team that created the RECESS program from the ground up. Her passion to support children and their families helped RECESS to grow into a dynamic, successful resource for the Mariposa community. Her persistence and work ethic lead to a promotion as CASA’s Program Coordinator. In this role, Monica combined her knowledge of the needs of families with advocating for children in Mariposa’s foster and delinquency systems. Working with Volunteer Advocates, community partners, and children in foster care strengthened her sense of commitment to provide quality, direct services to the youth CASA supports. Now as CASA’s Program Director, Monica is using her wisdom and experiences to instill these values in all of CASA’s programs. Monica resides in Mariposa with her husband and four children. She counts her children among her greatest accomplishments. Monica enjoys spending quality time with her family, whether it be at sporting events with her kids or enjoying a nice day out and about in beautiful Mariposa. She is excited about the work that CASA is doing and is looking forward to innovations and progress yet to come.
Salena Garcia joined the CASA family in September of 2022 as a Program Specialist. She first began her work with foster children as a CASA volunteer in Merced County. Working with disadvantaged children eventually led her to become a Resource Parent soon after. It was during these times that Salena realized her passion for advocating for underprivileged communities and began to gain the skills necessary to help those in need. After graduating with her AAs in Communications and Psychology in 2022, Salena plans to advance her psychology degree so she can cater to a wider range of people in the future. For now, she helps volunteers track their cases and make the important connections that are needed to best help their child.
Salena is looking forward to working in the Mariposa community with such dedicated advocates and awesome children! It is her goal to raise awareness and provide safety, permanence, and well-being for every child in need.
Lorayn Murrieta recently joined the CASA team in March 2024 as a Program Assistant III. Prior she worked as a Community Connector for another non-profit organization in Winton. She brings with her experience working with volunteers, community members, youths and the homeless. She also has a background as a Facilitator and is still working with youths to recognize, learn and grow healthy relationships. She is very excited to start her new career here at CASA in beautiful Mariposa and will be primarily focused on training and recruiting Volunteers!
When Lorayn is not at work she enjoys spending time with her kid, traveling, watching football, cooking and BBQ-ing for family and friends. She is also working towards getting her Pilots License and can’t wait to be traveling by air!
Cecilia joined CASA Of Mariposa County in May 2021 as a program specialist. She joined CASA to pursue her passion for helping others, especially youth! Growing up as the oldest sibling of 4 children has prepared her for this role, giving her skills such as patience, empathy and conflict resolution. In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family and also doing crafts. Her favorite part of the work day is seeing children light up when playing and participating in RECESS activities. She loves being involved with the community and strives to make a positive impact.
Cecilia comes from a big family and knows everyone has hardships and everyone deserves a big support system. In her role at CASA, she is happy to be part of the support team and a helping hand. She is proud to be a part of such an amazing program and hopes to touch the lives of as many children and parents as possible!
Beth is a dedicated Program Specialist at CASA having joined our team in February 2024, driven by a passion for helping her community. Beth’s enthusiasm for making a positive impact shines through, whether it’s advocating for others or lending a helping hand. Rainy days bring her joy, offering a peaceful backdrop for her favorite pastime: reading. However, her heart truly sings when she’s surrounded by loved ones, cherishing every moment spent together as a family.
Beth is looking forward to her time with CASA serving youth and making a positive lasting impact.
We are a community based organization committed to advocating for children and youth in Mariposa County. Check out our website to learn more about the ways we are working in the community and how you can partner with us to make a difference!
