Court Appointed Special Advocates Add 14 Volunteers

SOMERS POINT – 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: Carolyn Kelly of Galloway; Thomas Levine of Galloway; Neil Elsohn of Lower Bank; Nancy Cohen of Margate; Karen Bailey of Pleasantville; Barbara Paugh of Galloway; Charles Marshall of Absecon; Elva Thomas of Galloway; Charles Morgenweck of Marmora; Lynette Rodriguez of Ventnor; Gina Briguglio Manning of Egg Harbor Township; Beverlee Masters of Somers Point; Sangeetta Appel of Linwood; and, Sonia Gandhi of Galloway.
“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 on the lives of children and youth in our community. Unfortunately, too many children enter foster care every year. 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 the group’s information sessions held monthly at the CASA office at 321 Shore Road, Somers Point, and in the community. 
For information call (609) 601-7800 or visit www.AtlanticCapeCASA.org.