Stories about child abuse break people’s hearts. They’re left wondering what they can do to help. April is child abuse prevention month. Hundreds of pinwheels will be planted at family court on March 31 at noon, at 601 N. Pecos Road, near the Family Court flagpole. The gleaming pinwheels are intended to bring attention to Child Abuse Prevention Month and to bring attention to the CASA program that gives those who want to make a difference a way to do it.

The CASA Program will be ready to take applications from those who want to get involved to help as CASA volunteers to speak on behalf of children in the foster care system. The pinwheels also symbolize the uplifting childhoods and bright futures that all children deserve, including the many children in our community who face abuse and neglect, and receive services under the supervision of Family Court.

“The court puts great trust in the CASA volunteers to make an accurate and complete report about the best interests of the child, so that they will have long-term success, not only while they’re in the foster care system, but throughout their lives,” said Family Court Judge Margaret Pickard, who presides over the CASA program.

The CASA program, which is part of the Family Division of the Eighth Judicial District Court, recruits, screens, trains and supports volunteers to represent the best interests of hundreds of foster children annually. The advocates represent the children in school, child and family team meetings, and in court. Volunteering for the program involves about two hours a week, a two-year commitment and a willingness to spend quality time with the children to advocate for them. For more information about the CASA program call 702-455-CASA, or visit www.casalasvegas.org.

“Any judge will tell you that their decision is only as good as the information that they get. CASA volunteers have the opportunity to interact with the children directly in a way that enables them to get that crucial insight. We then do our best to make sure that your voice on behalf of the child’s voice is heard,” said Presiding Family Court Judge David Gibson Jr.