Pinwheels will be planted by the hundreds by Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers, court staff, judges, and child welfare partners at Family Court on April 11 at noon, at 601 N. Pecos Road, near the Family Court flagpole.

The spinning and gleaming pinwheels are intended to bring attention to April as Child Abuse Prevention Month. The CASA Program will be ready to take applications from those who want to get involved to help as CASA volunteers to speak on behalf of children in the foster care system. The pinwheels also symbolize the uplifting childhoods and bright futures that all children deserve, including the many children in our community who face abuse and neglect, and receive services under the supervision of Family Court.

“We invite the community to come join us for this uplifting event, get out, get sunshine and learn how you can actively help prevent child abuse by being a voice for a child,” said Family Court Judge Margaret Pickard, who presides over the CASA program.

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 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 about two hours a week, a two-year commitment and a willingness to spend quality time with the children to advocate for them. For more information about the CASA program call 702-455-CASA, or visit www.casalasvegas.org

“The pinwheels that will be planted symbolize the bright futures that our CASA kids deserve and our volunteers help deliver,” said Presiding Family Court Judge David Gibson Jr. “Come by and get to know the CASA program.”

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.