A recent benefit for Jackson County CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) — which was founded as an NCJW program — received support from members of the local Jewish community.
Cocktails for CASA: A Night of Hope raised funds to benefit children removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect. The evening’s festivities and auctions helped raise more than $122,000 to recruit, train and support more volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children under court protection.
In 1983, Jackson County CASA was founded as an NCJW program and was later spun off as an independent nonprofit. Jackson County CASA is one of the nation’s largest CASA programs. Its volunteers are expected to advocate for 1,250 children this year — about half the children removed from their homes for their safety in Jackson County this year.
Judges appoint CASA volunteers to the cases where children most need an advocate by their side as they navigate the foster care and court systems. CASA volunteers — with ongoing support from professional staff — work to provide critical information to judges, helping them make the best possible decisions regarding where the children should live and what medical, therapeutic, and educational services they need.
Jackson County CASA needs more volunteers to help advocate for children. Volunteers do not need any special skills or education — just a background check and training. A CASA volunteer usually spends about 10 hours a month meeting with the child, speaking with others involved, and attending meetings or court hearings. Volunteer hours are flexible.
More information is available at jacksoncountycasa-mo.org or by phone at 816-984-8200.
