Apr 2, 201209:56 AMYouth and Services
ProKids Advocating in Cincinnati Courts
http://www.prokids.org/
What comes to mind when you hear the word CASA? Most of us are probably journeying back to memories of our last high school Spanish class or recalling the episode of Dora the Explorer that might have been playing in the background of the family room the other morning. Regardless, we all are aware that casa means home. The national philanthropic organization, also known as ProKids in the Cincinnati area, strives to fight for the best “home” possible for children. CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates and this national organization makes a difference in the lives of children daily.
Children in the foster care system often have to deal with the court system and the array of legal responsibilities associated with the determination of their future. With such circumstances in place, the question is raised: who will be there to represent the child and his or her best interests? A CASA steps in at this point. A CASA volunteer is placed with each child going through the court system. After an extensive background search and training, ensuring the volunteer’s reliability, the CASA begins to work one on one with the child. The CASA takes the time to observe the child in a variety of environments to help them make the best decision of the most stable living situation for the child.
Ideally, the CASA hopes that the child can be reunite with the parents once they have made appropriate changes. Other options include placing him or her to live with another relative or, if necessary, adoption or foster care. The CASA is responsible for advocating in the best interest of the child and voicing their sentiments to the county juvenile court. CASA is continually looking for support, challenging the system to provide the best for a child; so that the child can have a home.
ProKids in Cincinnati is hosting a variety of sessions this upcoming month to educate CASAs and any other individuals interesting in volunteering. CASA is a phenomenal cause and one that is dear to my heart. As a member of Kappa Alpha Theta, our national philanthropy is CASA. Any events that our sorority chapters hold nationwide raise money that goes directly to the organization. Beyond supporting the philanthropies of Kappa Alpha Theta nationally, do not hesitate to reach out to ProKids for more information on CASA…to help a child find a home.
ProKids: CASA
2605 Burnet Avenue
Cincinnati, OH 45219
513.281.2000
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