Berkeley Heights Businessman Honored with New Jersey Leadership Award

Palisades, The Nice New Jersey Car Insurance Company,  President Ed Fernandez was honored March 3 by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of New Jersey at its 10th Anniversary Gala.  CASA is a non-profit organization committed to providing trained volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who have been removed from the home due to abuse or neglect.  A special message from Dr. Phil from the Dr. Phil television show was broadcast during the gala.

Fernandez was honored with the 2011 Leadership Award for his work in the community.  As president of Palisades, Fernandez has worked tirelessly to increase the safety of NJ residents on our roads, providing editorials on the hazards that distracted driving presents for children, and encouraging parents to get involved.  Said Fernandez about being honored, “I am humbled to be honored for my small efforts to help keep NJ children safe by such a tremendous organization like CASA, which in Fiscal Year 2010, advocated for nearly 3,000 of New Jersey’s most vulnerable citizens.”

“We salute our honorees for the efforts that they make on behalf of the children in foster care.  Those honored help make a difference in the life of a child,” said Rita Gulden, MSW, Executive Director, CASA of New Jersey.

CASA of New Jersey is part of a nationwide organization of community volunteers who speak up for the best interests of abused and neglected children in out-of-home care. CASA volunteers work with the family court system to review and monitor cases of children who are in the child welfare system. CASA volunteers work closely with the child and family to bring an independent assessment of the case to court, recommending to the judge what is best for the child’s future.

CASA volunteers help children by speaking up for their best interests in court. CASA of New Jersey is a 501(c)(3), non-profit corporation dedicated to improving children’s lives by helping them find safe, nurturing homes, in the shortest time possible.  For more information go to www.casaofnj.org.