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Hundreds of pinwheels will be planted at Family Court to symbolize hope for the more than 3,200 children in our community who face abuse and neglect, and are receiving services under the supervision of Family Court. April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, and a great time to  get involved with organizations that help promote the social and emotional well-being of children and families in our communities. The Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program is hosting this event to raise awareness about the need for more CASA volunteers and as an uplifting reminder of the bright futures that all children deserve, especially the children in the foster care system.   Those who want to learn more about how they can get involved are invited to join the pinwheel planting at the Eighth Judicial District Family Court flagpole, 601 N. Pecos Road on April 12, at noon.

For those interested in volunteering with the CASA program, monthly orientations are held on the third Wednesday of each month at 6 p.m.at the Government Center, 500 S. Grand Central Pkwy and  every second and fourth Saturday at 11:30 a.m. at Child Haven, 701 N. Pecos Rd. The next CASA Orientation is Apr. 13 at 11:30 a.m.

 “Every child deserves to live in a safe environment. CASA’s are the eyes, ears and voice to help to ensure that right”, said Family Court Judge Frank Sullivan, who oversees the CASA program. “We would like to have a CASA for every child that is under the supervision of the court. CASA’s play a big role in the future of the kids for whom they advocate.”

The CASA program recruits, screens, trains and supports volunteers to represent the best interests of hundreds of foster children annually. 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 Clark County CASA Program. The CASA mission continues to be fully supported by family judges.

“As the number of children in foster care grows, CASA u2018s are needed now more than ever,” said Presiding Family Court Judge Bryce Duckworth. “CASA volunteers accomplish extraordinary  things and we truly appreciate and thank them for what they do for the children in our community.”

For more information about the program call 702-455-4306, visit www.casalasvegas.org or visit www.facebook.com/#!/CASALasVegas.

 

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