CASAs needed to assist abused, neglected children

Children thrust into the court system after experiencing abuse, neglect or abandonment often face an uncertain future.

But Court Appointed Special Advocates can change that by volunteering to provide information to judges so the court can make an informed decision for the child. At a time when children need safety and security the most, CASA volunteers can provide a stabilizing force.

CASAs spend at least an hour each month with their assigned child. During their visit they gain an understanding of the child's living situation as well as emotional and physical needs to make an informed recommendation to the judge regarding the child's living situation and future placement.

Though they can't control where abused children come from, CASAs can have something to do with where they end up.

CASAs gather information by consulting those who affect the child's life, including family members, teachers, doctors, juvenile officers and Department of Family Services officers. Approximately 30 CASAs serve the 32nd Judicial Circuit, which covers Bollinger, Cape Girardeau and Perry counties.

"About another 20 CASAs are needed to serve all the children. Some kids are not assigned a CASA because we don't have enough volunteers," said CASA director Pam Jenkins, who herself was a CASA volunteer before taking over the directorship.

Volunteer Joan Drury, a CASA since 1999, said the commitment means making changes for the future.

"I wanted to make a difference in some child's life," Drury said. "If I could get them in the right direction, maybe I could make a difference."

The time she commits to each case varies because each volunteer decides how much time they need to spend with their charge.

"Sometimes I've worked 30 hours a month, other times it's three hours a month," Drury said.

CASA is again seeking volunteers to aid this region's neglected and abused children. Training is slated for Sept. 14. Materials are provided at no cost to volunteers, who are trained in courtroom procedure, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of abused and neglected children. Classes are taught by local expert including speakers from the Cape Girardeau Police Department, the Division of Family Services, the Juvenile Office, a lawyer, a physician and a child development specialist.

For more information, call 335-1726 or e-mail Pam Jenkins at pjenkins@capecasa.com.

cpagano@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 133