Nicholasville woman advocating for children as a CASA volunteer while pursuing social work degree

CASA Volunteer Alex Allouch

After Nicholasville resident Alex Allouch saw a documentary about an abused and neglected child, she knew she wanted to change the trajectory of her career. She decided she would find ways to make a difference for the children in her own community who had been abused or neglected.

Allouch is pursuing a master’s degree in social work and plans to be a licensed clinical social worker. But on her way to that goal, she also discovered she could serve as a CASA volunteer.

“I stumbled across CASA and knew it would be the perfect fit for me,” she said. “Creating lasting bonds with the children I serve is a feeling unmatched by any other. To know them is to love them, and being a voice, an ally, and a constant safe presence in the life of a child in need is definitely the most rewarding aspect of being a CASA volunteer.”

CASA volunteers are regular people who find 5-10 hours a month to give so that abused and neglected children can have brighter futures. CASA volunteers visit the children and often get to know them better than anyone else on the case. They provide insights about what’s going on in children’s lives, which helps family court judges make more informed decisions.

Allouch has advocated for four children since she first became a CASA volunteer in 2020. This month, her Volunteer Manager Cara MacLeod nominated her to be a Volunteer of the Month because she has done an amazing job connecting with her CASA kids and advocating for their needs.

MacLeod is the Volunteer Manager for Jessamine County and supports all the local CASA volunteers, going with them on initial home visits, attending court with them and providing guidance when they have questions.

“While knowing the facts and issues and gathering information is important, Alex’s most important asset is her ability to meet her CASA kids where they are and accept them for who they are, no matter the circumstances,” MacLeod said. “She develops a connection with those she serves, and that connection allows for a greater understanding and trust. It is an honor to watch and guide as Alex advocates for her CASA kids.”

Allouch said there are highs and lows of being a CASA volunteer — “some days you will laugh, others you will cry.”

“Above all, you will know that you are making a difference in the life of a child who desperately needs someone to be their voice,” Allouch said. “… you are never alone in the fight. As a volunteer, you are part of a family of people who are all passionate about the same cause. Everyone from the judge on the bench to your Volunteer Manager and fellow volunteers is involved in a concerted effort to help all children feel safe, loved, and valued.

“It is an important and undeniably worthy mission.”

CASA Volunteer Training

If you would like to become a CASA volunteer and be matched with an abused or neglected child who needs a voice, you can apply online at www.casaoflexington.org/apply. Trainings for new volunteers are held regularly throughout the year, including trainings specifically for Jessamine County volunteers. CASA volunteers must be 21 years old, pass background checks and complete a 30-hour training class before being matched with a child. Every CASA volunteer commits to serving an average of 5-10 hours a month (most work scheduled on their own time) for a minimum of two years. If you have questions about becoming a CASA volunteer, email jessaminecounty@casaoflexington.org.