CASA seeking volunteer advocates

You can be the voice for a child that has been silenced by abuse or neglect.

Spring advocate training for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for Boundary and Bonner counties begins in March. Class sessions will be small with room for social distancing. No special experience is required, and volunteer advocates receive initial training and ongoing support and education to represent child victims of abuse and neglect.

North Idaho CASA provides court appointed special advocates for children rescued from their homes due to abuse, neglect, or violence. CASA advocates investigate the circumstances of a child’s case; prepare reports for the court and make recommendations to the judge for medical and mental health care, educational assistance, and other services; and monitor case plans, court orders and hearings for compliance. Advocates ensure the child is in a safe home throughout their case; personally, visit with the child; and help the child understand their situation and the court proceedings.

Do you have the time to help a child victim? For more information, please call or email Carole Smith, advocate trainer, at 208-920-9404 or carolesmith@northidahocasa.org.

Information about the North Idaho CASA program is available online at www.northidahocasa.org.