You should know

CASA seeking volunteers to help neglected children

Jackson County GAL/CASA program is seeking new volunteers to give a voice to the abused and neglected children of Jackson County.

Court-appointed special advocates are everyday citizens who advocate for the safety and well-being of children who have been removed from their homes due to parental abuse and neglect, according to a news release from program manager Deena Personett.

They stand up for the children and change their lives, Personett said.

Thirty-seven Jackson County CASA volunteers are advocating for nearly 60 children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect.

There are, however, currently 75 children in the county waiting to have someone give them a voice and help to ensure that they find a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible.

CASA volunteers have helped more than 2 million children find safe, permanent homes.

In Indiana in 2014, more than 3,000 trained volunteers from 73 counties advocated for 18,690 children involved in the court system due to abuse and neglect. While this has made a huge impact, more than 4,000 children were still waiting for someone to speak up for them at the end of 2014.

If you can give five to 10 hours per month to help give a child a better life, you can be a CASA volunteer.

Information: 812-569-2598; [email protected].

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