Who Are We?
Court appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are volunteers for abused and neglected children in the court and child welfare system. A CASA speaks for the best interest of the child and works to ensure that every child is safe and achieves permanency. Volunteers review court records, research information involving the case, interact with all parties involved and ultimately work with the children themselves. CASA volunteers submit their recommendations to the court, regarding what he or she considers is in the best interest of the child. Judges rely on these recommendations in order to reach an informed decision about the child's future.
The volunteer's involvement creates a direct, lasting impression on a child's life. Our most important goal is assuring the children have the best life possible, and to ultimately make a difference. CASA 4 Kids began in Monongalia County in 1994, as a program under the Monongalia County Youth Service Center, and expanded into Preston County in 1997. Our program has the full support of the circuit court judges in both counties. We are funded by grants, foundations, and donations. Every penny counts. The money is used to train and recruit volunteers, to stand up for children of abuse and neglect. Currently, we are serving 112 children in the abuse and neglect court system.
Our Volunteers
At this time, CASA has 30 active volunteer advocates. There is still a need for more CASA volunteers as there are still approximately 45 children in need of a CASA. To become a CASA, a person must be at least 21 years old, pass a criminal and DHHR background check, commit to at least one year of service, complete 30 hours of initial training, and above all, have a passion to make a difference in a child's life.
For More Information
Anyone who is interested in more information can contact program staff at 304-599-1087, or email moncasa4kids@hotmail.com. Program staff include: Deb Guillot, Program Director; Stephanie Lewis, Monongalia County Volunteer Coordinator; or Chasity Scions, Preston County Volunteer Coordinator.