CASA Kane County volunteers sworn in virtually
Eighteen volunteers were recently sworn in as officers of the court in a virtual ceremony conducted by Judge Robert Villa, a circuit judge in the civil division of the 16th Judicial Circuit.
The swearing-in ceremony was the final step to becoming a court-appointed special advocate, a volunteer position with CASA Kane County.
These volunteers are now ready to advocate for foster children in Kane County who are in the child welfare system because they were removed from their home due to abuse or neglect.
CASA volunteers serve as a child's voice in and out of the courtroom to ensure the child's needs are being met and to work toward a permanent, safe home.
CASA Kane County served nearly 600 abused and neglected children last year who had been removed from their homes and placed into protective custody.
Thanks to the newest volunteers, at least eighteen more children will benefit from this important service, but CASA still needs additional volunteers in order to serve each child coming into the system.
"We are searching for additional dedicated volunteers who have a desire to help vulnerable children," said Sandie Cross, director of training and education. "Since the start of the pandemic, the number cases we are seeing has skyrocketed, while, due to the impact of COVID, it has been harder to recruit volunteers."
Volunteers need no special background or experience, the CASA organization provides extensive training and supports each volunteer every step of the way in their work.
Volunteers must successfully complete an in-depth, 40-hour training program that prepares them for the life-changing work they will be doing for the children and the court.
If you are interested in learning more about volunteering with CASA Kane County, contact Sandie Cross at sandiec@casakanecounty.org or (630) 433-3131.
To find out about future volunteer information sessions, visit casakanecounty.org/volunteer/general-information-meetings/.
Meet the team and learn more about what it means to become a CASA/GAL volunteer with the online sessions: 6 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 14; noon to 1 p.m. Monday to Wednesday, Dec. 27-29; and 3 to 4 p.m. Thursday, Jan. 6.