The CASA Program will finish the month of April, which is Child Abuse Prevention Month, on a high note, when 24 new volunteers swear an oath to become Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). On April 28 at noon, in courtroom 9 at Family Court at 601 N. Pecos Road, the new volunteers will participate in the administration of their oath before Judge Margaret Pickard. The CASA volunteers have successfully completed five weeks of training that outlines much of what they need to know to successfully advocate for children in foster care. They will spend between two to three hours a week, to get to know the children for whom they will advocate for in court and in school. The newest volunteers represent a cross-section of our community including: retirees, students, business owners, former foster youth, former foster parents, a Cirque employee, patisserie manager, and a retail manager. They all have one common goal- to represent the best interest of children in foster care. There are currently more than 3,000 children in foster care in Clark County and the new volunteers will be assigned to 45 children.

“I’m overjoyed that we have such a strong showing of new volunteers, particularly during Child Abuse Prevention Month,” said Family Court Judge Margaret Pickard, who presides over the Eighth Judicial District Court CASA Program. “Their input will have a legacy impact to ensure that the children they speak for have short-term and long-term success, not only while they are in the foster care system, but throughout their lives.”

“I want to thank our newest volunteers for stepping up to speak-up for abused and neglected children,” said Presiding Family Court Judge David Gibson Jr. “I encourage anyone who wants to make a difference in the life of a child, to consider volunteering just a couple hours a week to volunteer 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 and 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:

· Wednesday, May 3 (9 –10 a.m.)

· Friday, May 12 (noon – 1 p.m.)

· Wednesday, May 17 (6 – 7 p.m.)

· Friday, May 26 (noon – 1 p.m.)