A new class of  34 CASA volunteers is ready to swear an oath on March 17 at noon to speak for abused and neglected children in foster care. The volunteers represent a cross-section of our community including several couples who will work as teams to help on cases. The ceremony will take place at Family Court 601 N. Pecos Road, courtroom 9.

The volunteers have been thoroughly trained to prepare them for their new volunteer role. There are more than 3,000 children in foster care in Clark County who each need a CASA volunteer.

“We are really grateful to these volunteers and the many others who are already advocating for children,” said Family Court Judge Margaret Pickard, who presides over the Eighth Judicial District Court CASA Program. “CASA volunteers are the eyes and ears to know what is going on in the lives of the children for whom they advocate.”

The new CASA volunteers will have one common goal – to represent the best interest of children in foster care. They are asked to spend approximately two to three hours a week, getting to know the children and others who are involved in their lives, so they can advocate and speak for them in court and in school. CASA Volunteers are a cross-section of our community.

“These 34 new CASA volunteers will make a big impact on the lives of the children for whom they will advocate,” said Presiding Family Division Judge David Gibson Jr. “They will focus on what the children need and get that important information to judges. Judges rely on the insight CASA volunteers provide to make informed decisions in the best interests of the children.”

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 foster children in Clark County. The advocates represent the children in school, child and 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.

Those who are interested can learn more at one of the many monthly online orientations by visiting www.casalasvegas.org and signing up to attend. Potential volunteers can also call the CASA program at 702-455-CASA for more information.

Upcoming Orientations:

  • Wednesday, March 19 (6 – 7 p.m.)
  • Monday, March 24 (noon – 1 p.m.)
  • Friday, April 4 (noon – 1 p.m.)
  • Wednesday, Apr. 9 (9 – 10 a.m.)
  • Friday, Apr. 18 (noon – 1 p.m.)