La Salle County CASA starts preservice training for volunteers

The first day of preservice training for La Salle County Court Appointed Special Advocates has officially begun, as local volunteers step forward to provide a voice for children in foster care.

Currently, there are 200 children in La Salle County in the foster care system, highlighting the urgent need for CASA volunteers. These CASA trained advocates play a pivotal role in a child’s journey to safety and stability, acting as a source of care, support and trusted advocacy during difficult times.

“Besides filling a need for and creating meaningful relationships with youth in foster care, being an advocate has offered me great awareness of the system and even greater joy and personal enrichment,” said Angela Accomando, an active volunteer with La Salle County CASA.

Expanding to Meet Growing Needs

To address the increasing number of children entering the foster care system, La Salle County CASA is committed to growing its program by providing continuing education, and with the recruiting and training of additional advocates. This expansion will ensure every child has the support and advocacy they need to thrive, no matter how complex their circumstances may be, CASA said in a news release.

“We are profoundly grateful to the compassionate individuals who step forward to advocate for children in need,” said Sally M Van Cura, executive director of La Salle County CASA. “Thanks to our volunteer advocates, we are able to work towards our mission by ensuring that every child assigned to our CASA program has a dedicated champion in their corner — fighting for their right to a safe, loving and permanent home.”

Join the Mission

La Salle County CASA is seeking new volunteers to join its ranks and make a lasting impact on the lives of children in the community. Through preservice training, volunteers gain the tools, knowledge, and confidence to navigate the child welfare system and become a beacon of hope for the children they serve.

With quarterly preservice training opportunities beginning in 2025, now is the time to resolve to make a difference. Becoming a CASA volunteer is a meaningful way to bring hope and stability to a child in need, the agency said.

For more information about La Salle County CASA or to get involved, visit https://lasallecountycasa.org/or email iam4thechild2@yahoo.com.