Support CASA by volunteering
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Recently, Montana Supreme Court Justice Beth Baker announced her support for the 15 Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs serving children in cases of abuse and neglect across Montana. Citing the growing need for CASA volunteers, Justice Baker accounts for a 50 percent increase in the number of abuse and neglect cases filed in Montana since 2009. Currently, Montana’s CASA volunteers serve more than 1,500 children.
In Lake County, District Court Judge Kim Christopher has been an adamant supporter of local CASA volunteers acting in the best interests of children who have been removed from their homes. CASA of Lake County currently serves 21 children.
CASA volunteers are appointed to cases to make recommendations to the court regarding the custody and long-term care of a child. The job of a volunteer is to get to know the child and the child’s family, attend treatment meetings and work with local service agencies on behalf of a child in need. Justice Baker recognizes in her recent support that there is no single answer to any of these cases. The significant role of a CASA volunteer is to help determine the best outcome for the child in each individual case.
County volunteers act with the support and guidance of a local program director, as well as the national CASA program. A volunteer starts with 30 hours of training conducted through a combination of at-home study and job shadowing. Volunteers stay with their case until a permanent home for the child is recognized by the court. Under new laws in which long-term foster care is not an option, permanent placement for the child — whether with a family member or an adoptive family — should happen within 18 months.
As the new director of CASA of Lake County, following my service as the Lake County Justice of the Peace, I am deeply concerned by the number of repeat offenders in our justice system whose children become the responsibility of our CASA program. I am equally concerned by the preponderance of illegal drug use in these cases.
I hope those of you who have the time and interest in this rare opportunity to make a difference in a child’s life will join us in the commitment of CASA of Lake County. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CASA volunteer, you can call 883-0158 or contact casalkco@yahoo.com.
