Yesterday’s South Bend Tribune carried this story about CASAs/GALs. For those unaware, CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates and GAL means Guardian Ad Litem. These are legal terms for volunteers (generally) appointed to represent the interests of children in abuse, neglect, and domestic relations cases. Most recently a GAL was in the news when she attempted to have TaJanay Bailey removed from her mother’s home against the wishes of the Department of Child Services. TaJanay was allegedly killed by her mother the day of the hearing.
The Blogmeister has had the pleasure of serving on the board of Northeastern Indiana CASA for the last few years. It’s a good not for profit organization totally devoted to the needs and representation of children in the court system. Aside from a few paid staff to run the organization, it is completely staffed by volunteers and funded by private and United Way donations, as well as some funding from county courts. As such, they are always looking for volunteers and other forms of support.
Check out the story, and if so moved, contact your local CASA/GAL office and inquire how you can help!
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Need a casa worker application to volunteer to help youth regain respect and dignity in their lives as they learn to become adults.
Comment by Dee Stewart — September 12, 2009 @ 5:43 pm |