Lima, OH— February 4
Crime Victim Services announced this week the need for additional volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates to support the growing number of abused, neglected, and dependent children in our community.
“We are very excited to be able to meet with folks who want to learn more about the CASA Program. This is away for those in our community to give back to kids by being a voice for them within the court system,” said Sara Heitmeyer, director of CASA of Allen & Putnam Counties. “Our goal is to provide every child involved in abuse and neglect a CASA Volunteer; someone to get to know that child, to advocate for that child, to be their voice in the courtroom."
CASA of Crime Victim Services began in 2009 in Allen and Putnam Counties. Today more than 70 active volunteers are serving approximately 100 children. In Allen County, CASA volunteers are appointed to dependency and neglect cases from the Juvenile Court. In Putnam County, CASA volunteers are appointed to divorce and custody cases from the Domestic Relations and Juvenile Court.
“Advocates work hard to ensure each child’s needs remain a priority in an over-burdened child welfare system,” says CASA Volunteer Tim White. He goes on to say, “In spite of all of the good CASA volunteers do, and the great accomplishments they make, there simply are not enough volunteers to represent the hundreds of children “trapped” within the system. It is an unfortunate reality.” Further, White encourages others to give back, saying “If you care about children and are looking for a way to give back and support your community, I can think of no better way to exercise your love and care than by becoming a CASA volunteer. The difference you make in the life of a child is everlasting.”
Volunteer training orientations will be held on March 3, 2022 from 11am-12pm and 6pm-7pm at the CASA Office located at 235 N. Main St., Lima, OH 45801. Snacks will be provided. For more information, and to register call 567.940.2272 or email casa@crimevictimservices.org.
Crime Victim Services is a local, independent non-profit victim services agency that believes communities thrive when all members prevail over trauma and support one another with empathy and respect.
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