Press Release
Piedmont CASA celebrated the induction of 11 new volunteers on Nov. 14, five of whom are from Fluvanna. Judge Areshini Pather swore them in after applauding their commitment to become Court Appointed Special Advocates.
CASA’s newest volunteers were administered an oath in front of their family members, program staff members, and the Board of Directors chair. CASA volunteers are the heart of the organization. As CASA looks forward to its 30th anniversary of service, it is embarking on a major expansion to provide CASA volunteers for the entire 16th Judicial District. “
The first leg of the expansion is Fluvanna County, and these five new volunteers will help us meet that increased need,” states Kate Duvall, president and CEO.
The new CASAs join a force of nearly 100 Piedmont CASA volunteers who support and advocate for hundreds of children and youth in foster care in Charlottesville and the counties of Albemarle, Greene, Louisa, and Fluvanna. The goal of each CASA volunteer is to give a voice to their child within the social service and judicial systems. They provide individualized one-on-one advocacy for their child, and work with all agencies and parties involved in the case. They compile all the information they gather into court reports which includes recommendations for the child, such as medical care, therapy, and educational support. Through their advocacy, Piedmont CASA volunteers assure that the best interest of each child is distinctly heard, and that they find safe, permanent homes.
With these new CASA volunteers, the program will be able to serve an additional 11-15 children who are in foster care. Spring Training for Piedmont CASA’s next group of volunteers will begin on March 1. Any adult interested in becoming a CASA Volunteer can contact Leah Cole at volunteer@pcasa.org.
