Advocates needed for local children

CASA of Northeast Louisiana is holding a new volunteer training class beginning March 8 to ready volunteers to serve local children currently in need of an advocate. 

CASA volunteer training consists of five three-hour classes spread out over five weeks. The orientation class for the training will be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. March 8.

No previous experience is required to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate. By volunteering for just 8-10 hours per month, Advocates can make a lifelong difference for a local child.

The goal of CASA is that each child served will find a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible. Too often, children languish for years in the foster care system with no hope of finding a permanent home or having a normal childhood. Studies have shown that when a CASA is involved a child’s chances of finding a permanent home are doubled.

The role of a CASA is to act as an extra pair of eyes and ears for the judge, collecting information through observation and interviews with key players in the child’s life and then reporting back to the judge. To become a CASA, you must be at least 21 years old and pass a federal background check.

If you are interested in becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate, please call Jessica Bryant today 398-0945.