CASA volunteer summer training enables you to help abused and neglected children

Hundreds of central Kentucky children continue to suffer abuse and neglect every year. But there are also hundreds of CASA volunteers – regular people who volunteer to make things better for those children.

“New CASA volunteers are needed desperately right now,” said Melynda Jamison, Executive Director of CASA of Lexington. “There are many children who need a CASA volunteer but cannot have one until we train more. We have the training available and the support staff in place to add several dozen new volunteers, who can go to work immediately helping these children.

“All we need are people with a heart for helping children.”

CASA of Lexington’s summer training class for new CASA volunteers runs the week of June 24-28. Classes are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Friday. Jamison said there are many seats still available.

“Our summer training lets new volunteers complete their required 30-hour class in a single week. Then, we match the new volunteers with abused and neglected children who need someone looking out for their best interests,” Jamison said.

Once matched with a child, a CASA volunteer visits the child monthly. The volunteer gathers information about the child’s situation and writes reports for each hearing in the child’s case. Volunteers’ reports can help get children more services, experience more stability and find safe, permanent homes fast.

CASA volunteers give 5-10 hours a month on average and commit to serving for a minimum of two years.

“It’s truly remarkable the positive change you can create with less time in a month than you probably spend watching TV in a week,” Jamison said. “Your CASA child may go on to live a far happier and healthier life because you were there to show them someone cared and advocate for their needs.”

If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer, you can learn more, fill out a volunteer application or view upcoming training schedules.