Sixty CASA volunteers will be on the fast track at the Formula1 Las Vegas Grand Prix when they present the American flag on Saturday, Nov. 23, at 9:44 p.m., during the national anthem sung by vocal harmony group Boyz II Men. The special ceremony is scheduled for the final day, just prior to the Formula 1 race. For each race, Formula 1 selects a deserving local organization to present the flag, to recognize their contributions and show appreciation. CASA volunteers represent the best interest of abused and neglected children in the community.
“To have our CASA volunteers selected to be part of the monumental Las Vegas Grand Prix is an honor that each of them truly appreciates,” said Eighth Judicial District Court Presiding Family Division Judge David Gibson Jr. “CASA volunteers demonstrate the best of our community and give so much of themselves to advocate for our most vulnerable children. The recognition from the Clark County Commissioners and Formula 1 is valued. Their efforts to honor CASA volunteers and get the word out on the urgent need for CASA volunteers to speak for abused and neglected children takes our message to an exceptional new level.”
The 2024 Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix takes place over 50 laps of the 3.8 mile Las Vegas Strip circuit, with 17 high-speed turns past many of our city’s iconic landmarks. Celebrities flock to Las Vegas to experience the excitement of the world-renowned Grand Prix and watch drivers race at jaw-dropping speeds topping 215 mph.
“I am so proud to see that CASA volunteers are participating in the flag ceremony of the world-renowned Formula 1 Las Vegas Grand Prix. Their extraordinary contributions to give voices to our most vulnerable children should be recognized,” said Clark County Commissioner Jim Gibson. “It is truly gratifying to have been part of the Court Appointed Special Advocate program origin story here in Clark County, and to now support the CASA program’s push to get a volunteer for each child in our foster care system.”
Volunteer participation in the event will bring attention to the more than 3,000 children in foster care in Clark County who each need a CASA volunteer. The volunteers 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 those children in court, in family and team meetings, and in school.
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. 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 in volunteering with the CASA program 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.