Northwest Rocky Mountain Court Appointed Special Advocates has named a new executive director, enhancing its service to children and families within the 14th Judicial District in Moffat, Routt and Grand counties.

Jim McCormick will take over the leadership of Northwest Rocky Mountain CASA. Their offices are based in Steamboat and Craig.

According to a news release, McCormick has over 40 years in nonprofit management. He recently retired as the senior vice president of Colorado Christian University in Lakewood. He relocated with his family to Steamboat Springs a year ago, and will now be working out of the nonprofit’s Steamboat Springs office.

“During his 30-year tenure at Colorado Christian University, he oversaw the traditional undergraduate campus of 1,500 students, and focused on student life, enrollment and retention,” the news release stated. “During that time, McCormick led an effort that nearly doubled the traditional enrollment on campus in just under 10 years.”

McCormick received his BA in communication and public relations from the University of Northern Colorado, and a Master’s in Education from the University of Colorado.

Current CASA employee promoted

A current staff member, Lauren Rising, has also been promoted to assistant executive director.  

“Now in her sixth year with the organization, Rising has been key in strengthening and stabilizing the CASA program,” the release stated. “In her current role, Rising recruits, trains and supports volunteers while driving growth and ensuring strong advocacy for children in the 14th Judicial District.”  

According to the release, she has also led fundraising efforts, adapted to shifting organizational needs and contributed to the organization’s continued success. Rising holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Wyoming and spent nine years in child welfare before joining CASA.

About Northwest Rocky Mountain’s court appointed special advocates

Northwest Rocky Mountain CASA’s vision is for children to have safety, stability, and hope for the future. NWRM CASA works toward that vision by specializing in serving children and families via their network of court-appointed special advocates, or CASAs, who are trained volunteers who advocate for children or youth who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASAs volunteers provide information the judge may use to make the most informed decision based on the child’s best interest. This nonprofit was formed in 2008.