New CASA Volunteers Sworn In
On December 9, 2014, the Hon. John Gallagher swore in 19 CASA volunteers – court appointed special advocates for children in foster care who have been abused or neglected.
The newly appointed CASA volunteers join over 200 other dedicated community members who have been trained by CASA and are advocating for foster children in the county’s juvenile dependency court system. As officers of the court, they ensure that the children’s needs are recognized and best interests are considered in the courtroom and in the community.
CASA volunteer Advocates meet with their child regularly and are authorized to meet with people in the child’s life such as social workers, attorneys, and teachers. They attend court hearings with the child and report their findings to the judge. Volunteer Advocates make a commitment to staying with their child until the case closes.
“We are extremely fortunate to have so many volunteers that are committed to advocating for children in our community who need them the most,” said Jimmy Cook, CASA’s Program Manager. “These volunteer Advocates play a significant role in improving the lives of children in foster care.”
For more information on how to become a CASA volunteer advocate, please contact CASA Outreach Coordinator Cita Rasul at (831) 761-2956, ext. 201, or visit www.tinyurl.com/CASAorientation.