CASA of the Sabine Neches Region Staff

Codie Vasquez, a native of Orange, Texas, ventured across the country after completing high school. In 2001, she returned to her roots, reuniting with her family in her hometown. The following year marked the beginning of her dedicated service to non-profit organizations, advocating for accessible services for those in need. Her commitment to community involvement is evident through her leadership roles: she is the Vice President of Orange Community Players and Treasurer for the Service League of Orange, and she is also a member of the City of Orange's Historic Preservation Commission.
In her personal life, Codie is married to Al and is the proud mother of Rico. She also cherishes her role as a grandmother to Zelda and Ezran. Her gratitude extends to CASA for their tireless efforts in effecting positive changes in the lives of children every day.
In her personal life, Codie is married to Al and is the proud mother of Rico. She also cherishes her role as a grandmother to Zelda and Ezran. Her gratitude extends to CASA for their tireless efforts in effecting positive changes in the lives of children every day.

Halee Watkins is the dedicated Program Director for CASA of the Sabine Neches Region. Having lived in Vidor for most of her life, Halee is deeply rooted in her community and is passionate about helping those in need. As a mother of three, she brings a nurturing and empathetic approach to her role, ensuring that the voices of abused and neglected children are heard and their needs are met. Known for her people skills and community involvement, Halee’s leadership and commitment are vital to the success of CASA’s mission to provide a safe and supportive environment for every child.

Lori McGee grew up traveling a lot, she attended and graduated from Terrell High School. She also attended Navarro College in Waxahachie Tx where she studied Emergency Medicine and received EMT certification. She worked on an ambulance is Dallas area, also studied Hyperbaric and was a Safety Director. Her family is from and most still live here in Southeast Texas. Back in 2017 her and her husband Tim moved back to the area. Together they have 5 children and 4 grandchildren. She has a passion to help and serve.
"Be strong Be Brave Be Fearless you are never alone " Joshua 1:9
"Be strong Be Brave Be Fearless you are never alone " Joshua 1:9

Anastasia Ringo is a Louisiana native having been born in New Orleans and raised in Marrero. At age 11, her family moved to Texas, where her and her siblings soon entered the foster care system. This experience, along with the incredible support from CASA workers fueled her passion for child advocacy. She graduated from Texas A&M Texarkana and holds a Bachelor's in Psychology and Sociology and is currently pursuing a Master's in Social Work. In addition to professional aspirations, Anastasia is an avid cat lover and cares for her two cats, Clementine and Wally.

Shekitha Mitchell serves as the Advocate Supervisor for CASA of the Sabine Neches Region, where she passionately oversees advocacy efforts for children in Sabine, Jasper, and Newton counties. With a deep commitment to child welfare, Shekitha brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role, ensuring that every child’s voice is heard and their needs are met. Her leadership and compassion are instrumental in guiding volunteers and making a positive impact on the lives of the children and families she serves. Shekitha’s unwavering dedication to her community exemplifies the mission of CASA to provide a safe and nurturing environment for all children.

Lacey Stillwell is a dedicated professional with a rich background in office management and child fostering. She graduated from Sabine Pass High School in 2005 and currently resides in Vidor, Texas. Lacey is married to her husband, T.C., and together they have three cherished children. With a passion for helping others, she has also opened her home to foster children. Lacey previously served as the Office Manager for Altus Hospice in Beaumont for 11 years, where she honed her skills in administration and team leadership.

Sheila McGarity was born and raised right here in the Lone Star State. Married to her High School Sweetheart Thomas. They are the proud parents of Becca, pursuing a career in Music Education. In 2003, she and her family moved to Kountze from Houston. Where her husband serves as Pastor of Mid-Way Baptist Church. They’ve been in full time church ministry for over thirty years. She has had the pleasure of working not only in churches but day cares, private and public schools along with years of management.
The Starfish Story, By: Loren Eiseley
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed boy picking up and gently throwing things into the ocean.
Approaching the boy he asked, “Young man, what are you doing?”
“Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die,” the boy replied. The man laughed to himself and said, “Do you realize there are miles of miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make any difference.” After listening politely, the boy bent down to pick up another starfish and threw it into the surf. Then, he smiled at the man and said, “I made a difference to that one.” YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
The Starfish Story, By: Loren Eiseley
One day a man was walking along the beach when he noticed boy picking up and gently throwing things into the ocean.
Approaching the boy he asked, “Young man, what are you doing?”
“Throwing starfish back into the ocean. The surf is up and the tide is going out. If I don’t throw them back, they’ll die,” the boy replied. The man laughed to himself and said, “Do you realize there are miles of miles of beach and hundreds of starfish? You can’t make any difference.” After listening politely, the boy bent down to pick up another starfish and threw it into the surf. Then, he smiled at the man and said, “I made a difference to that one.” YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE!

Brandi Smith, a lifelong resident of Vidor, brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Office Manager at CASA of the Sabine Neches Region. As a mother of two boys and a devoted pet owner, Brandi’s nurturing spirit extends beyond her family to her professional life. She has a strong passion for supporting children and animals, which is reflected in her previous work in daycare and as an individual aide for special education in Vidor schools. Brandi’s commitment to her community and her organizational skills make her an invaluable asset to CASA, where she ensures efficient office operations to support the organization’s mission.