Community Members Invited to Learn About CASA for Children

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Children of Essex County will host an information session at the Nutley Masonic Lodge F&AM, 175 Chestnut Street, on the first Monday of each month at 11:00 a.m. for community members interested in learning how they can improve the lives of Essex County’s abused and neglected children in foster care. CASA Volunteer Advocates are everyday citizens appointed by the Family Court to gather information about a child’s needs while in foster care and to speak up for the best interests of these children in court.

The meeting will provide an overview of the foster care system in Essex County, the impact of CASA’s work in the community, and the role of a CASA volunteer. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet a local advocate and have any questions answered.

“Essex County has more children in the foster care system than any other county in New Jersey, and there is a great need for more volunteers,” stated Brenda Schwartz, Director of Volunteer Management. “Last year, CASA volunteers advocated for nearly 30 percent of the children in foster care in Essex County but every child deserves the individual attention and support that a CASA Advocate can provide.”

No special background or education is required to become a CASA Volunteer Advocate who makes a difference in the lives of Essex County’s most vulnerable citizens. For more information or to RSVP for the information meeting, contact Jess Earl at (973) 622-4831 or jearl@casaessex.org.