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CASA
Making a difference, one child at a time...
 
CASA was developed in 1977 by a Superior Court Judge in Seattle, Washington. He sought to ensure that the best interests of abused and neglected children appearing before him were being served by involving volunteers to advocate for individual children.
 
 
Locally, the Hopkins County CASA Program was organized in 1997 through joint efforts of the Family Advocacy Center's Board of Directors and the local Courts. The Hopkins County CASA Program is one of over 20 programs in KY and one of over 900 Programs in 50 sates nationwide.
 
CASA volunteer Amy Chumbley along with Judge Susan McClure:
 
But what do CASA volunteers DO?
Volunteers serve a variety of functions in the life of an abused or neglected child: fact finder, talking with all those involved with the case, gathering facts and reporting them back to court, facilitator, monitor, being aware of court orders and making certain that those involved are in compliance, but most importantly... an advocate, a voice for whats the child's best interest.
Hold on...I'm just a regular person, I don't have a law degree...I'm no social worker - how can I be qualified to do this?
CASA volunteers are ordinary people. No special degree or experience is required. Volunteers come from all cultural, professional and educational backgrounds. You must be 21 years of age or older, be able to pass a thorough screening process and participate in 30 hours of training - which is set up around your schedule.
 
 
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