Too often we read heartbreaking accounts of child abuse and neglect. Most stories, however, never make it to the newspaper. Tragically, about 1,000 children every year are found by New Hampshire courts to be victims of abuse or neglect. What can a compassionate, caring adult do to help these powerless children?
You can make a difference. Become a volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). A CASA is a trained volunteer appointed to represent the interests of an abused or neglected child, offering the child some stability during a chaotic and painful time, and providing the child with a voice in court.
There are numerous professionals who are part of the legal process, but only the CASA specifically focuses on what’s best for the child. The CASA meets with the child, parents, teachers, therapists and others concerned with the child’s well-being. Then then CASA determines what she or he believes to be the most appropriate action to take on the child’s behalf and presents a written report to the court. A case normally takes about a year, though some cases continue for longer.
I am a CASA and I know I have had a positive impact on the lives of the children for whom I have advocated. It has been a truly remarkable and rewarding experience.
Training for interested adults is offered periodically throughout the year. For more information go to casanh.org or email [email protected].
Jack Hurley lives in Claremont.
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