Critical Child Advocates Sworn In By Union County Judge

UNION COUNTY, NJ — Seven Union County-area residents have officially been sworn in as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), taking on roles focused on supporting children in foster care as they navigate the court system.

The oath was administered by Union County Superior Court Judge Rosalba Comas during a recent ceremony held by CASA of Passaic and Union Counties.

The volunteers will now be assigned to work with individual children or sibling groups in foster care, helping ensure their needs and best interests are represented throughout the legal process.

The newest advocates include Rachel Hajjar of Cranford, Elizabeth Maher of Summit, Crystal Coleman of South Plainfield, Maria de Gannes of Linden, and Barbara Monaghan of Westfield, along with Julie Harnisher of Westfield.

CASA volunteers are trained community members who meet regularly with children in foster care and connect with caregivers, teachers, caseworkers, and others involved in the child’s life before making recommendations to the court. The program is designed to provide consistent, independent support for children who may otherwise face uncertainty during ongoing legal proceedings.

“Every child deserves at least one adult who shows up consistently, listens carefully, and refuses to let them fall through the cracks,” said Erica Fischer-Kaslander, executive director of Child Focus, which oversees the CASA program. “These seven volunteers have made an extraordinary commitment to children who urgently need stability, encouragement, and someone wholly dedicated to their future.”

No prior experience in child welfare is required to become a CASA volunteer, as training is provided. Volunteers come from a variety of professional and personal backgrounds and are paired with children in foster care to serve as consistent advocates.

CASA of Passaic and Union Counties is a program of Child Focus, a nonprofit organization supporting children impacted by or at risk of abuse or neglect. More information about becoming a volunteer is available at www.casapassaicunion.org or by calling 973-832-4002.