An organization dedicated to standing up for children is looking to expand into Callaway and recruit volunteers to its cause.
Heart of Missouri Court Appointed Special Advocates for children (CASA), which serves children in foster care in the 13th Judicial Circuit, is hosting a launch event from 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Hermann Lounge at Westminster College in Fulton to explain more about what the organization does in hopes of convincing community members to get involved.
According to a press release, CASA volunteers "make a difference in the lives of children who have experienced abuse and neglect in their community."
"CASA volunteers ensure the best interests of the children are promoted, and safe, loving permanent homes are achieved," the release states.
"Basically, a court-appointed advocate is a volunteer from the community that doesn't necessarily have to have special background or training," said acting program coordinator Kelly Hill, noting that CASA provides screening and training before being sworn in as an officer of the court. "The whole purpose is to make sure you are advocating for the best interests of the child."