Three new YWCA Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers have been sworn in by Ohio County Circuit Court Judge James P. Mazzone.
The YWCA CASA program is a nonprofit organization that trains community volunteers to speak in court for the best interests of abused and neglected children. The program is accredited by the National CASA Association and serves Marshall and Ohio Counties.
Individuals sworn in at a special ceremony held in Judge Mazzone's courtroom include Amy Hill, Jeanne Landtiser and Kelly Sacco.
CASA Director Susan Harrison said that becoming a CASA volunteer requires a commitment to children, objectivity, responsibility, communication skills and approximately 10-15 hours per month. Once accepted, volunteers are trained in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of children who have been abused and neglected.
With the information provided by CASA volunteers, judges are able to make informed decisions as to what is in the best interests of the child.
More volunteers are needed. For information please call Harrison at the YWCA CASA office, 304-232-0511.