WELLSBORO, Pa., November 5, 2026. The Tioga and Bradford County Keystone Advocacy Initiative officially becomes CYAN of the Northern Tier today. The change follows the October 7 rebrand of the state organization, formerly PA CASA, to CYAN, The Child & Youth Advocacy Network of Pennsylvania, part of a statewide effort to strengthen child advocacy across the Commonwealth.
The new name says exactly who we serve: children and youth in Bradford and Tioga Counties who experience neglect and abuse.
Volunteers will carry a new title: CYAN Judicial Child Advocate. These trained community volunteers are appointed by judges to help determine the best path forward for a child. They observe and report on the life of that child, then give the judge information and recommendations. The new identity gives volunteers a clearer professional identity. Current volunteers will continue their work without repeating their training or being sworn in again.
The transition also introduces an updated training curriculum designed for Pennsylvania's dependency court system. The state office will evaluate the curriculum regularly as child welfare practices and laws evolve.
Work remains grounded in Pennsylvania state law and in collaboration with judges in the Courts of Common Pleas.
In FY25–26, CYAN served 5 children and youth in Bradford and Tioga Counties with the help of 3 active Judicial Child Advocates.
How to Get Involved
CYAN of the Northern Tier is always looking for people to become Judicial Child Advocates, and for community support. To learn more, visit our Become an Advocate page or contact Sherri Turner-Shults at 570-464-6585 or contact@cyannortherntier.org.
About CYAN of the Northern Tier
CYAN of the Northern Tier advances the health, safety, and wellness of children experiencing neglect and abuse in Bradford and Tioga Counties by empowering Judicial Child Advocates. These community volunteers, appointed by judges, are the most effective tool to ensure children are on the path to permanency. CYAN of the Northern Tier is part of CYAN of Pennsylvania, which empowers affiliates across the Commonwealth.