CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Children of Essex County is looking for volunteers. They are a nonprofit organization based in Newark that trains everyday citizens to advocate in court for the best interests of foster children. https://www.casaessex.org/volunteer
Brenda Schwartz, Director of Volunteer Management, wanted all to know that many advocates are educators, some being SOMA residents. She also said that retired teachers in particular find great satisfaction in the opportunity to apply their years of experience and skills to building a one-on-one relationship with a vulnerable child, giving them hope for the future. CASA had an exhibit table at the Pride Fest in Maplewood last Sunday to raise awareness of the additional challenges facing LGBTQ youth while in the foster care system.
If you are interested, the next training session starts July 16 and is geared to teachers so that they can complete the mandatory 30 hours quickly while their schedules are more open.
On behalf of Essex County’s 1,800 foster children, CASA thanks you for your consideration and are deeply grateful for the opportunity to spread the word through the community. If you would like more detail, please email Michelle Rhodes at someacommunications@gmail.com for a direct contact.
