Children, that is the number one reason I am a CASA. These children up until they were appointed a CASA had no voice in the decision made by the judge. Being a CASA I was involved from the start. I made sure services were made available to the parents and the children. Services that would make a difference in their lives and the lives of their parents. These children need to know that they are not the reason they were removed from their home. They need compassion, understanding and a feeling that someone does care that they are not neglected or abused. They need a voice and I am that voice. Will you be a voice for that child?Lift up a Voice, LIft up a child.
Children who have been abused and neglected need someone to be a voice for them in the court system. That is what we as Court Appointed Special Advocates do. Through getting to know these children and their situations, we report their expressed needs and wishes to the court as well as our own perceptions of what these kids need in regards to their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. We are part of a team of people working to serve families and provide help to those who are willing to receive it. As the one person involved in a case as a volunteer, most children recognize that we are there simply because we want to be and we care about them. The other day during a visit with her at school, one of my little girls repeatedly told anyone in her classroom who would listen that "she's the one who talks to the judge." It is rewarding to walk into a room to visit my CASA child, and see her face light up as she rushes over to give me a hug. And even when unhealthy choices have led to current problems, compassion and respect can have an uplifting effect on parents and families. It is inspiring to see families go from patterns of despair to hope and growth. And it is a blessing to know that giving of my time and myself could be changing these precious children's lives for better...forever.