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This time of the year, a lot of people contemplate what they can do to get the year off to a good start. Those who want to help children in need, may want to consider volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). A CASA orientation on Jan. 17 at 6 p.m. at the Government Center, 500 S. Grand Central Pkwy. will provide information on how you can have a huge impact on the life of a child.

There is a big need for CASA volunteers in Clark County to speak up for the approximately 3,200 children in the community who are receiving services under supervision of Family Court. CASA volunteers represent the children 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.

There are around 350 CASA volunteers serving as a voice for children under the supervision of the Family Court CASA Program. Many more volunteers are needed to advocate for the remainder of the children in care. Last year, nearly one thousand children had a CASA volunteer to help them navigate through the system, deal with school challenges and handle home life.

The CASA program recruits, screens, trains and supports volunteers to represent the best interests of hundreds of foster children annually. In 1980, Judge John Mendoza led the creation of the Clark County CASA Program.

CASA orientations are held the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Government Center, 500 S. Grand Central Pkwy. More information is available about the program at 702-455-4306, visit www.casalasvegas.org or Facebook at www.facebook.com/#!/CASALasVegas.

 

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