Feb. 4, 2008
(229) 931-2037 ssnyder@canes.gsw.edu
By Brad Ray
GSW CASA announces volunteer training in Americus
AMERICUS – Recognizing the
need for trained and supervised volunteers to help with abused and neglected
children, the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program at Georgia
Southwestern State University (GSW) has scheduled a volunteer training program
to begin March 1.
"CASA will provide trained and supervised community volunteers who
work to ensure safe and permanent homes for abused and neglected children," said
Advisory Board Member Lynda Lee Purvis. "This is a great opportunity for people
to donate a little time and do a lot of good."
The GSW CASA program covers the Southwest Judicial Circuit, which
includes Lee, Macon, Schley, Stewart, Sumter and Webster counties. In 2006,
there were 1,044 children involved in child protective service investigations
(for either abuse or neglect) in this circuit. Of those children, roughly half
were African-American and half were Caucasian, and boys and girls were almost
equally represented. And, of those children in Department of Family and Children
Service's custody last year, 85 were moved three or more times.
"CASA volunteers will provide a voice for these children in court by
working to ensure that their best interests are considered," said Brad Ray,
executive director of the program. "Together, we can work toward breaking the
cycle of abuse and neglect."
The mission of GSW CASA, Inc. is to provide screened, trained and
supervised community volunteers. Volunteers are then appointed by Juvenile Court
Judge Lisa Jones to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected
children in the juvenile courts of the Southwestern Judicial Circuit.
The training is set to begin March 1 at 9 am at The Herschel A.
Smith Health Center on GSW's campus in Americus. Those seeking more information
about the GSW CASA program, or about volunteering with the program, are
encouraged to call (229) 931-4488 or email bray@canes.gsw.edu.
- GSW -