Friends of Children’s CASA Program is recruiting volunteers to serve as mentors and advocates for children and youth referred by the Juvenile Court in Hampshire County.
The nonprofit organization is holding a volunteer training program this month and is accepting applications through March 10 for this class. CASA recruits, trains and supports court appointed special advocates (CASAs) to advocate for the particular needs of a child and family.
CASAs provide critical emotional and educational support, ensuring that each child’s needs are met and their voice is heard while they navigate the court dependency system.
We know CASAs make a tremendous difference in a foster child’s life. For example, only 55.6% of all foster youth in Massachusetts complete high school, but with the support of a CASA, foster teens fare much better. Last year, CASA helped over 25 Franklin/Hampshire children and youth obtain the appropriate educational services to move toward their educational goals.
We need CASAs in Hampshire County now more than ever. A growing number of children in the dependency system are being placed in foster care or are at-risk of being removed from their homes.
CASA advocates within the legal process for the best interests of these children. These best interests can include appropriate assessment and services to meet needs, the right out-of-home placement, and for services to families so that children can safely remain in their homes.
The Franklin/Hampshire CASA Program is dedicated to improving the life stories of children impacted by their involvement in the child welfare system.
If interested, we urge adults over 25 to contact Christine Dutton at the Friends of Children office at 413-586-0011, or visit the CASA website at friendsofchildren.org to learn more. Right now, there are children waiting for their CASA volunteer. Could it be you?
Debi Belkin
Hadley