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Last updated on Wednesday, May 3, 2017
(BEDFORD) - Children in Lawrence County are looking for someone to speak for them.
Lawrence County's Court Appointed Special Advocates are the voice for the child during court proceedings where a judge must decide whether to return the child to his home or terminate parental rights.
The judge relies on these volunteers to express the child's wishes, in lieu of the child's testimony.
The volunteer provides an independent assessment to the judge of what is in the best interests of the child based on conversations with the parents, the child, DCS case manager, school staff and service providers, such as therapists.
The volunteer may devote about 10-15 hours a month as a volunteer. The average length of involvement is 12 to 24 months for a case.
That's why an informational session is planned for anyone who might be interested in serving as a CASA.
The session is set for 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 9 at the Mitchell Church of Christ, 1004 W. Main Street.
Presentations will be given by Allen Burris, Juvenile Referee John Plummer III, McCord, Rich Kosmala, director and attorney for Lawrence County's CASA program, and Becky Goller, who serves as a foster parent and a CASA volunteer.
If you are interested in becoming a CASA or would like more information, please plan to attend. If you cannot attend, but would like to learn about the program or become a volunteer contact Rich Kosmala at (812) 277-7171 or by email at rkosmla@lawrencecounty.in.gov.
Stay informed: Facebook, www.facebook.com/LawCoCASA, or visitwww.casaforchildren.org.
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