Blue Ridge CASA for Children is calling on compassionate individuals in Lexington, Buena Vista and Rockbridge County to step up and make a life-changing difference for children in need by becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA).
Right now, there is a critical gap in advocacy for children in the Rockbridge area with this upcoming class. While current advocates are serving the community, the training class, which begins Sept. 19, does not have a single local volunteer committed yet.
Because of this urgent need, Blue Ridge CASA has extended its original application deadline to Aug. 31, giving more local adults an opportunity to step forward and ensure that vulnerable children have a dedicated advocate in their corner, said a spokesperson.
Volunteer advocates will meet with the child monthly, talk with people involved in the child’s life, review records related to the case, child, and family, and put everything they have learned into a court report for the judge.
No prior experience is required, but applicants must be 21 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, and be able to pass a background check. Applicants must also be able to commit to one year on a case and have basic technology skills to use Zoom, Gmail, and Google Documents. Blue Ridge CASA provides comprehensive training and ongoing support.
Visit blueridgecasa.org to apply. Anyone with questions can send an email to [email protected] or call (540) 213-2272.