A voice for children
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By Beth Bear
Director of JCBA – Guest Columnist
For nearly 20 years, CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) has been serving as a voice for children in foster care in Jersey County, but this year, their important work is being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.
CASA’s work currently includes advocating for 72 children in 41 cases. Of those children, nearly 30 are under the age of 3. Twenty-eight local CASA-trained advocates share these cases, checking in on each child at least once per month until they are able to be reunited with a parent or they are adopted.
As one of 40 CASA’s in Illinois’ 102 counties, Jersey County is incredibly lucky to have a local CASA advocating on behalf of its children and families. The important work they do includes submitting CASA reports to the court every 3-6 months, making recommendations to attorneys and judges, and working with DCFS and private caseworkers on behalf of the children they serve.
Unfortunately, like other organizations and businesses, their work has been severely affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. After much deliberation, CASA leaders have made the agonizing decision to once again cancel their Taste of the Tri-County fundraiser.
Outside of this fundraiser, which is the organization’s primary money-making event, CASA funding comes from grants and a small portion of county fees on guilty traffic and misdemeanor cases.
Even with these sources of alternate funding, the cost of supporting local foster children, extensive background checks on advocates and operating expenses for the organization are piling up. As a result, CASA is asking the community to show their support for these children and their organization in a number of ways. Those wanting to make a difference can do so by:
Becoming a “Friend of CASA,” which is a program allowing individuals and corporations to make a tax-deductible charitable donation to the organization.
Mailing a check directly to CASA at 201 W. Pearl St, Jerseyville, IL, 62052.
Following the organization on Facebook: Jerseyville CASA.
Becoming a CASA advocate.
Those who choose to become an advocate must commit to hard and often emotionally-draining work. Their rigorous training includes 36 hours of instruction, fingerprinting, background checks and supervision and follow-up as they complete their work. This, in addition to the organization’s five part-time staff means money and resources are needed now more than ever.
Whether you choose to help by making a donation or thanking an advocate, please show this incredible organization your appreciation for all that they do. They are an asset, not only to our county, but to some of the most vulnerable members of our communities.
