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The Coronavirus has given people time to think, and for some it has been an opportunity to reflect on how to give their life meaning through giving back. That sentiment was heard in the words of the recent batch of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers who were sworn in to speak on behalf of kids in foster care. The new volunteers included those who had been adopted, teachers, psychology professionals and others.
“When the world stopped, I had a lot of time to think about what was missing,” said Maureen Mach. “I did some research and I saw CASA. I knew it was going to be a commitment; I knew it was exactly what I needed. It has given me so much motivation and focus, so I am just as excited to make a difference.”
Other volunteers shared their motivation:
“I was adopted and it was a less than ideal situation. I want to be for a child what I needed at that time.”
“I would like to be a solid person for the children in my cases and make sure that someone is looking out for them.”
“I want to be a consistent person in a child’s life, advocate for them, and make sure they have a consistent person in their life.”
There is a big need for CASA volunteers in Clark County to speak up for the approximately 3,000 children in the community who are receiving services under supervision of Family Court.
“When you give abused and neglected kids a CASA, you give them a voice. When you give them a voice, you give them hope. When you give them hope, you give them a future,” said Family Court Judge Frank Sullivan, who administered the oath to the CASA volunteers. “CASA’s are the ears and the eyes for the court. They provide a voice and offer stability for kids who are in foster care and don’t otherwise have a lot of stability in their lives.” He reminded the volunteers to focus on three things: safety, welfare and permanency in a timely manner.
The CASA program recruits, screens, trains and supports volunteers to represent the best interests of hundreds of foster children. The volunteers speak on behalf of children in foster care who have endured abuse and neglect. They give input in school, family team meetings, and in court. Volunteering for the program involves a two-year commitment and a willingness to spend quality time with the children to advocate for them.
For those interested in volunteering with CASA and want more information about the program please call 702-455-4306, visit www.casalasvegas.org or Facebook at www.facebook.com/#!/CASALasVegas.
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