By Helen Lenox
Staff Writer
On June 8, 2009, four students from TWC were sworn in as Court Appointed Special Advocates, better known as CASA. After receiving 30 hours of specialized training, plus courtroom observation time, these students, myself included, became part of a national organization whose job it is to protect and serve the best interests of children.
CASA Corridor of East Tennessee, located at 110 N. Jackson Street, Athens, serves the counties of McMinn, Meigs, Rhea, Polk, and Bradley. Working alongside attorneys and social workers, a CASA is an official part of the judicial proceedings. A CASA is appointed by the juvenile court judge or referee to advocate for the best interest of children who have come to the attention of the court primarily as a result of neglect and/or abuse. For many of these children, their CASA may be the one constant adult presence who cares only for them.
A CASA most usually handles only one or two cases at a time, thus allowing for a thorough exploration of the history and circumstances of each assigned case, as well as plenty of one-on-one time with the child. On average, a CASA spends 10-15 hours per month on each case. This is very little time, considering the impact the hours have on the lives of the children.
With the new service learning program taking effect at TWC, this is one area where you can not only receive your service credits, but make a difference in the life of a child in your own community.
For more information on becoming a CASA, contact Frances McMahan, Executive Director at (423) 746-9037 or http://www.casacorridor.org.
