Retired Teachers to Learn More about Agencies That Advocate for Children

“Remember to bring your books for court,” is a frequent announcement at California Retired Teachers’ Association #71 meetings (CalRTA #71). Now the Retired Teachers will have a fuller understanding of how the donated books are used when representatives from two agencies that help protect and care for abused or neglected children speak at the retirees’ luncheon meeting on Friday, February 10, at 11:30 a.m.

​The CalRTA #71 meeting will take place at the Senior Center Building in Arcadia Park (county park), 405 W. Santa Anita Ave., Arcadia, next to the Lawn Bowling Greens. The cost of the luncheon for those who pay at the door is $13. As an alternative to the hot meal, a tuna salad is available. For luncheon reservations, please call John Gera at (626) 286-0714 by the February 3 deadline.

1. ​Two speakers are on the program.  Camhrin Christensen is the Volunteer Recruitment and Outreach Director of CASAis the Volunteer Recruitment and Outreach Director of CASA, Los Angeles (Court Appointed Special Advocates for Childrren, L. A.). Her organization uses volunteers to help foster children go through the court system. Currently there are 30,000 children in the dependency system in L. A. County, and Camrin is heading up CASA’s efforts to triple the number  of volunteers needed. Camrin holds degrees in International Affairs–a BA from Wellesley College and an MA from Tufts University. She has worked for an Orange County non-profit that provides at-risk youth with social and educational opportunities. 

Alma Jimenez is with the Los Angeles County Department of Children and family Services. As a social worker, Alma has been with that department for nearly 24 years. Her degrees are a BA in psychology from UC Berkeley and an MSW (Social Work) from CSU-Long Beach. Alma Jimenez is Children’s Services Administrator at the Shelter Care Program with Edelman’s Children’s Court. In her own words, she “tremendously enjoys improving the lives of foster children,” and will take her audience through a day in the lives of the children with their “special place” in court that provides them with a safe, comfortable place with the donated books playing an important part.

Membership in the California Retired Teachers’ Association is open to all retired educators, to current educators, and to any others interested in joining. CalRTA’s motto is “Your Partner in Pension Protections.”