SOMERS POINT – The Honorable M. Susan Sheppard, Presiding Judge and the Honorable W. Todd Miller swore in 18 volunteers as Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Feb. 25, at Josie Kelly’s Public House, in Somers Point.
According to a release, the graduation was the culmination of 35 hours of instruction in child advocacy, the Family Court system and cultural competency.
As CASA volunteers, they will meet with and advocate on behalf of children and youth living in the foster care system and recommend resources and services regarding the youth’s education, medical and overall wellbeing.
The ultimate goal is to ensure that the children attain safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible.
The new CASA volunteers are Katie DeSalle of Linwood; Susan Weidlich of Somers Point; Mary Clark of Brigantine; Robert Thornburg of Brigantine; Linda Jones-George of Atlantic City; Susan Chiginsky of Northfield; Jacqueline Zarrillo of Northfield; Patricia Jacobucci of Egg Harbor City; Linda Goddard of Galloway; Diana Rago of Ocean City; Michelle Baehrle of Northfield; Bruce Sherwood of Villas; Tracy Anderson of Egg Harbor City; Christina Sica of Linwood; Sharon Allen of Berlin; Laureen Porreca of Ocean City; Katie Mutter of Court House; and, John Boyle of Brigantine.
“We are so thankful that these individuals stepped forward to take the role of advocate for children living in foster care,” stated Director of Program Services Jennifer Valentine. “Their advocacy will have a profound effect of the lives of children and youth in our community. These new CASA volunteers are starting a journey that will help change the stories of the children they meet and in the process their lives will be changed as well.”
CASA volunteers meet with everyone on the child’s case, including teachers, caseworkers, counselors and health care providers and gather information into objective court reports. Each report, submitted to the family courts at every hearing, contains recommendations for services and resources regarding the child’s education, medical and overall wellbeing.
Individuals interested in becoming a CASA volunteer should attend one of our monthly Information Sessions held at the CASA office at 321 Shore Road, Somers Point, N.J. and in the community. For information call (609) 601-7800 or visit www.AtlanticCapeCASA.org.
