Fort Wayne & NE Indiana News

The latest positive news written by residents and organizations in our community.
Family   |   Government   |   Latest News

Volunteers Step Forward To Provide A Voice For Abused & Neglected Children

Allen County CASA will hold a Swearing-In Ceremony for 24 CASA Volunteers who completed training during the health crisis to serve as advocates. These resilient volunteers completed training virtually (via Zoom) despite the virus and stay-at-home orders.

The Swearing-In Ceremony for new volunteers will be held at the Allen County Courthouse Rotunda on Wednesday, August 19 @ 5:30 pm.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) provide a voice for children in the court system who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASA Volunteers meet often with children, building a positive relationship and monitoring their safety and well-being. CASA Volunteers found creative ways to continue to meet with children during the health crisis, i.e., using FaceTime, Skype and/or phone calls, and visiting outdoors while social-distancing. “While not a perfect solution, this kind of creativity is what can make a real difference in children’s lives,” said Nancy Springer, Director. “The role of the CASA is even more important in these difficult times, when children are socially isolated and families may be struggling.”

Magistrate Sherry Hartzler will preside over the ceremony. Magistrate Hartzler has presided over Children In Need of Services (CHINS) cases in Allen Superior Court, Family Relations Division since 2015 and oversees Family Recovery Court.

This event is sponsored by the Allen County CASA Coalition, a not-for-profit that focuses its efforts toward recruitment, training, and supporting volunteers. Allen County CASA is affiliated with the Indiana State Office of GAL/CASA, which is part of the Indiana Supreme Court, Division of State Court Administration. Allen County CASA is certified by the State Office and complies with the Indiana Supreme Court Program Standards and Code of Ethics for GAL/CASA programs. Allen County CASA is also a member of the National Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association. Anyone interested in becoming an advocate for children should contact Nancy Springer, Director, at (260) 449-7190.