The CASA Connection
Learn more about what’s going on at CASA Project Worcester County, in our Central MA communities, and with our partners by reading our NEW monthly blog! Have a topic you’d like us to write about or want to be considered for a featured spot? Email communications@thecasaproject.org!
Champions for Children: The Tesconi Family Legacy
On Thursday, Sept. 11, 2025, Lee, Carol, and Matthew Tesconi unveiled a $100K Match contribution at CASA’s Champions for Children’s event, which served as a powerful continuation of their family’s legacy. The Tesconi family’s commitment to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Project spans generations and has only grown stronger over time, it speaks volumes about their values and their belief in the mission. This $100,000 challenge match to the CASA Project Worcester County represents not just financial generosity, but an enduring dedication to advocating for abused and neglected children.
The Tesconi family’s relationship with CASA runs deep, Lynn (Tesconi) Barrieau has worked at CASA for more than two decades. Since 2001, family members—including her husband Rock Barrieau and daughter Kathryn, parents, Ernie and Jean Tesconi, brothers, Lee, (Carol and Matt), Chuck (Beth and Kristina), and David (Barbra, Lydia and Abby), and Aunt & Uncle Charlie and Janice Tesconi, have collectively donated over $400,000 to the organization, before this $100,00 donation.
This commitment extends beyond financial support. When Ernie and Jean Tesconi passed in 2022 and 2023, and Lynn’s husband Rock in 2017, each was remembered in their obituary for their steadfast commitment to their communities. Their families honored their legacies by requesting donations be made to CASA in their memory—a touching tribute that reflected the values and priorities each of them held dear.
Lee, Carol, and Matthew’s $100,000 commitment isn’t just a donation—it’s a challenge and an opportunity. By offering to match all new donations as well as increased gifts from current supporters, the Tesconi family is leveraging their generosity to inspire others to give more and new donors to join the cause.
As Lee Tesconi and his family reflect on their journey with CASA, their words capture the heart of why this organization matters. “When Lynn first walked through CASA’s doors 24 years ago, none of us could have imagined how deeply this organization would touch our family’s heart. Year after year, we’ve witnessed the profound difference CASA makes in the lives of children who need someone to believe in them, to fight for them, to simply show up. It’s changed how we see our community—and our responsibility to it. If you’ve supported CASA before, you already know the incredible work they do. If you’re just learning about their mission, let me tell you: these children need us. Every single one of them deserves a voice, a champion, someone who won’t give up on them.”
With the support from our donors, CASA provides trained volunteer advocates who work one-on-one with children in the foster care system who have experienced abuse and neglect. These advocates serve as a consistent, caring presence in a child’s life—often during their most vulnerable moments. They ensure that the best interests of these children are heard and represented in the courtroom and throughout their journey in the system. Every child deserves someone in their corner, and CASA is committed to achieving this goal and providing every child in need with an advocate.
Our family wants to make it easier for you to join us in this work. Whatever you can give—$25, $100, or more—we’ll match it dollar-for-dollar. That means your generosity will go twice as far for Worcester County’s most vulnerable children. Together, we can make sure no child faces the system alone. The children CASA serves cannot wait. With every match, we’re not just growing our resources—we’re growing our community’s commitment to their wellbeing, safety, and hope for a better future.
How to give
Participate in the Tesconi family’s $100,000 match challenge and
Every dollar matched is a child’s life changed.
Click here to donate, select “Champions for Children mailing” in the dropdown, and know your donation will have DOUBLE the impact!
To inquire about giving opportunities or planned gifts, contact our Executive Director, Julie Bowditch, at giving@thecasapoject.org .
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Joining CASA Project Worcester County in April 2001, Lynn Barrieau has progressed through various roles. She started as an Advocate Supervisor and now serves as the Assistant Director. She also served as the Interim Executive Director for several months. Lynn’s extensive knowledge of CASA, the Worcester Juvenile Court, grant writing, and human resources, among other areas, is unmatched. CASA is fortunate to have such a dedicated staff member.
Lynn graduated from Providence College with a Bachelor of Science in Special Education and Health Administration. She earned a master’s degree in counseling from Fitchburg State University and currently teaches Psychology and Social Problems part-time at Mount Wachusett Community College. Lynn also serves as the Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees at Fitchburg State University.
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