Former Foster Youth Joins Leadership of Life-Changing Organization

Los Angeles, CA, July 30, 2015 — Child welfare nonprofit organization CASA of Los Angeles (CASA/LA) is pleased to announce the election of Grandpoint Bank Senior Vice President Thomas F. Turner to its Board of Directors. Turner brings a wealth of financial experience to the Board and also comes from a unique background, having been a foster youth in Los Angeles County himself.

I was a foster child in MacLaren Hall in the 60s, which was one of the worst experiences any child can go through,” said Turner. “While conditions have improved since I was in the system, there is still a need for assistance. CASA grants hope to kids that feel hopeless. It provides stability to children that have none and encourages and supports them when no one else does. That’s a huge thing in a kid’s life. That’s why I want to be involved. When I look at them, I see myself.”

Tom’s story is one of inspiration,” said CASA/LA Executive Director Dilys Garcia. ”He knows the difficulties these children face. His experience, insight and guidance will be a valuable asset for CASA moving forward.”

Turner was honorably discharged from the US Army (74-77, 91C30 MOS, 11B) attached to the 2/75 Rangers. Turner is an experienced banking executive with over 38 years of diversified experience in special assets/commercial banking, OREO’s, compliance/regulations, multi state foreclosure laws, ABL, loan acquisitions/syndications, portfolio management, pre/post closing audits, credit policies/procedures, debt restructures, bankruptcy, liquidations and recoveries. He holds an MBA from Loyola Marymount University, NASD License Series 7 & 66 plus Life/Health Insurance.

Prior to joining Grandpoint, Turner was Senior Vice President, Manager III – Special Assets with Bank of America. He also has served in management positions with Union Bank of California, Imperial/Comerica Bank, Far East National Bank and multiple other financial institutions.

Turner’s other charitable work includes the USC Parents’ Council and volunteer teaching at Operation Hope. He is a former Board member of My Friend’s Place.

ABOUT CASA/LA

Founded in 1978, CASA of Los Angeles is a community-supported 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to mobilize community volunteers to advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children in the overburdened foster care system of Los Angeles County. CASA’s vision is of a Los Angeles where every foster child has an advocate and the opportunity to thrive. Through committed, highly trained everyday citizen volunteers, CASA brings the voice of a concerned community into the child welfare system. Studies have shown that children with CASAs receive more assistance and support than children without, and are more likely to be adopted or returned to their families and less likely to reenter the child welfare system. For more information, please visit the CASA of Los Angeles website: https://www.casala.org.