“Somebody should do something about that.” A sentiment we have all heard or possibly even said ourselves. It’s our way of safely advocating for something that we probably believe in but don’t believe we have the power to change. Child abuse and neglect is happening right here in our own community. Children are exposed to substance abuse, domestic violence or they are abused themselves. This is a real problem. “Somebody should do something about that.”
The men and women of the Athens CASA/GAL Program are doing something about that. These compassionate community members volunteer their time to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates. They build relationships with children who have come to the attention of the juvenile court because of abuse or neglect. They get to know the child and all of the important adults in that child’s life in order to advocate for the child’s best interests in court. These CASA volunteers work alongside other child-serving professionals to fight for a child’s right to grow up in a safe and stable home.
CASA volunteers undergo a rigorous screening and application process. They complete 32 hours of pre-service training, observation and shadowing prior to being sworn in to serve as a CASA. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. Some are retired; some work full time; some are students. Some have social services or education backgrounds; some have science or history backgrounds. Some have worked with children in the past; some are learning new things every day. Despite the journey that got them here, CASA volunteers share the belief that they can “do something about that.”
The Athens CASA/GAL program needs more volunteers. Applications are currently being accepted. If you would like to learn more about the program and how you can help, please join us at an Informational Meeting at 1 p.m. April 29 at the Athens Public Library. Please RSVP to athenscountycasagal@gmail.com.
Jenny Stotts is the executive director of the Athens CASA/GAL program.
