A volunteer army is growing by 17 on Monday, March 6, at an oath ceremony for Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers. These new volunteers are stepping up to speak for abused and neglected children. They have successfully completed five weeks of training. They will spend between two to three hours a week, getting to know the children for whom they will advocate and speaking for them in court and in school based on what they learn. The volunteers represent a cross-section of our community with one common goal to represent the best interest of children in foster care. 

The new CASA volunteers will be sworn in March 6 at noon., at Family Court 601 N. Pecos Road, in courtroom 9. The volunteers will advocate for the best interests of 30 children, but, many more  are needed to fill the need for CASA volunteers for more than 3,000 children in foster care. 

“The judges put great trust in CASA volunteers to make an accurate and complete report about the best interests of the child,” said Family Court Judge Margaret Pickard, who presides over the Eighth Judicial District Court CASA Program. “The input from CASA volunteers helps to ensure that the children have short-term and long-term success, not only while they are in the foster care system, but throughout their lives.”

“On behalf of the court, I want to thank these 17 new volunteers for stepping up to speak up for abused and neglected children,” said Presiding Family Court Judge David Gibson Jr. “We thank all of our many volunteers who are ensuring that the best interests of children in foster care are being served. I encourage anyone who wants to help kids, to consider volunteering as a CASA.”

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. In 1980, Judge John Mendoza led the creation of the CASA Program in Clark County. 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:

· Friday, March 10 (noon – 1 p.m.)

· Wednesday, March 15 (6 – 7 p.m.)

· Friday, March 24 (noon – 1 p.m.)

· Wednesday, April 5 (9 –10 a.m.)