Volunteers needed to advocate for Jefferson County area Children

FAIRFIELD – The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program trains and supports community volunteers to advocate for a safe and permanent home for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Currently, the program in Jefferson County and surrounding area needs at least five new volunteers to serve local children.

“Our goal is every child who needs a CASA volunteer has one,” said Cara Galloway, CASA & FCRB of Southeast Iowa Program Coordinator.

CASA volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and receive training in topics including the juvenile justice system, social services, and child trauma response. Upon completion of training, volunteers are sworn into service by a judge. Once assigned to a case, volunteers regularly visit the child, as well as talk with the child’s parents, teachers, service providers, and other adults in the child’s life. After developing an understanding of the child’s situation, they write and submit reports to the courts, making recommendations about the child’s needs and best interests.

“CASA volunteers work collaboratively with others involved with the case and make sure the voices of these children are heard,” Galloway said. “They connect with the child and help make sure the child’s case stays on track.”

Fall and spring training sessions are scheduled, but interested people need to apply now to begin the screening process. For more information or to apply, contact Galloway at 515-499-3160 or visit https://childadvocacy.iowa.gov.

The CASA program is overseen by Iowa’s Child Advocacy Board, which became part of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services July 1, 2023.