Volunteer with Kids Now, Impact Our Community Forever Are you looking to make a lasting impression on your community? Then become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and give a voice to the abused and neglected children in Washington County. CASA for Kids, Inc. is a local nonprofit organization that trains community members to become a CASA who will speak up for the best interest of abused and neglected children in Washington County courts. CASA volunteers regularly visit and get to know their assigned children. They review records, research information, talk to individuals involved in the child's life and present their recommendations to the court. "Our volunteers do not have to have a certain educational background," Lynn Sylvis, Program Director, said. "Just the ability to communicate well, a heart for children and an open mind." Volunteers work as fact-finders who gather pertinent information relative to their child's case. Advocates are assigned to one family at a time, and work to monitor their assigned child to ensure that their needs are being met. The average assignment typically lasts about 18 months. children changed their lives," she said.prepare advocates for their role. The "What our volunteers do is incredibly class runs from 5:30 to 9 p.m. one day important and incredibly impacful" Additional ways to support the program include fundraising and efforts to support fellow volunteers per week. Training is free. For more information or to register, call 724-228-0414 or visit casawashingtoncounty.org As of January 2019, there are 29 children on CASA for Kids, Inc. Washington County's waiting list. "We're not looking for a specific type of person." Sylvis, said. "Just a person who cares about children. Each is in need of an advocate to ensure a bright future. Sponsored content brought to you by And while any type of volunteer experience can be rewarding, making a difference in the life of child can be life altering "We have received feedback from the courts that CASA has saved the lives of children," Executive Director, Carrie Richardson, said. Sylvis agrees. "Most of our volunteers say that getting to know these Interested in becoming a CASA volunteer? Volunteers must be at least 21-years-old, undergo a background check and complete a 30-hour training program. The next training program be gins Tuesday. Feb. 12.The program lasts nine weeks, and is designed to CASA Court Appointed Special Advocates