FORT WAYNE, Ind. (ADAMS) – The Indiana State Office of GAL/CASA along with the Allen County Office of GAL/CASA will celebrate #CASADay2022 on March 9.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Day is an opportunity for CASA programs all over the state to spotlight the importance of best-interest advocacy for child victims of abuse and neglect. The in-person event typically held annually at the Indiana Statehouse was canceled due to the pandemic.
For 2022, the Indiana State Office of GAL/CASA is encouraging the more than 4,000 Indiana volunteers to wear blue for CASA on Wednesday, March 9.
Local CASAs will gather on the Allen County Courthouse lawn on Wednesday.
CASA Volunteers across Indiana advocated on behalf of more than 23,290 abused and neglected children in 2021. These children deserve to have their voice heard and need a CASA to protect their best interests. The GAL/CASA network has recently expanded and now includes programs in 88 of the 92 Indiana counties.
Locally, 186 dedicated volunteers advocated for more than 773 children in 2021. Allen County CASA Volunteers and staff made more than 30,000 contacts on behalf of children in 2021. Volunteers donated over 4500 hours advocating for abused and neglected children, working to better understand their needs and wishes and to support them in this challenging time in their lives.
More volunteers are needed! Currently, 649 children need a Volunteer Advocate and are currently served by CASA staff or attorney GALs alone.
If you want more information on becoming a CASA Volunteer please contact Mell Depew, Recruitment and Training Coordinator with the Allen County Office of GAL/CASA: Mell.Depew@allensuperiorcourt.us or 260-449-7190.
