The Rotary Club of Hopkinsville heard from the executive director of the Court Appointed Special Advocates initiative at Tuesday’s meeting.
Regina Kelly heads up the CASA program now, and says their mission is to put children as the top priority in court proceedings—an advocate is appointed by a judge to offer support to a child that is involved in the court system until they find a permanent home. The work closely with children involved in dependency, abuse or neglect cases by being with them through the entire process and advocating for what each child needs to be happy and healthy.
Kelly says their volunteers make a huge impact in the lives of children in need, providing a voice for them in court proceedings and in foster families.
She says they are in desperate need of volunteers—they need around 150, but right now, they only have four.
Kelly says there are requirements to be a sworn-in volunteer, but ultimately what is best for the child is what is most important.
For more information on how to volunteer, what exactly CASA is or how to donate to the cause, call 270-887-4024.