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Last updated on Friday, November 18, 2016
(BLOOMFIELD) - A Greene County high school student has been chosen to perform during the upcoming Rose Bowl Parade on Monday, January 2.
Kelly Slaven of the Greene County Daily World reports that the student is also a CASA youth, and has been working with his CASA volunteer, Adam Barker, for about six months.
CASA, (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are responsible for being the 'voice of a child' to advocate for the well-being of neglected children in court.
A gifted trombone player, Barker says the student plays first chair trombone in his high school band and marching band, and also receives private lessons through an instructor at the Indiana University School of Music.
The youth currently plays on a beginner level trombone, however, his skills have surpassed his current instrument.
The student has spent hours researching online and speaking with professionals before making a selection as to what type of instrument his next trombone would be.
The CASA volunteer and the CASA Program want to raise the funds to purchase the trombone for the student before he performs in the Rose Bowl Parade in January, which will be a dream come true for the talented musician.
According to it's official website, children who do have a CASA volunteer when going through the legal system are more likely to succeed in school and less likely to spend three or more years in care.
According to Barker, the student is ahead of his peers, excelling in school as well as being an accomplished musician.
"He is really talented, super dedicated, and ahead of his peers. Given the home life he has experienced, it's even more remarkable," Barker added.
The official website states on average, children will spend two years in foster care, with each one of the children changing homes three times.
However, the student is also actively involved in church and maintains high grades on the honor roll.
"He is a generous, caring kid and not what one might expect a child to be like coming from a more troubled family life," says Barker.
Director of the Greene County CASA Program, Samantha Flath, says tax deductible donations can be made through the Greene County Foundation in care of CASA YOUTH TROMBONE. Checks can me mailed or dropped off to the foundation, or donations can be made online at the foundation's website. Flath said donors should include both their address and web address. A gofundme is also available to make donations online.
Funds raised will go directly to purchasing the trombone, and will provide extra funds to help with travel expenses to the Rose Bowl.
Donations can also be made at the CASA office. To contact the office, email CASA@co.greene.in.us or call (812) 384-2036 to find out more information.
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