Many Americans make New Year’s resolutions to lose weight or save money. But some goals are more charitable than others. Giving more of yourself will make you happier and more fulfilled. It can also help to give your time to children, which can transform a person’s life.
The economy is down and prices fluctuating can make it difficult. But no one has it worse than a child living without a family. The 2008 Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Child Maltreatment Surveillance Report shows that the U.S. states and local child protective agencies (CPS), investigated 3.6 Million reports of child abuse and neglect in 2006. CPS reported that there were 900,000 child victims.
Even when they are identified as victims, many children don’t receive assistance. Many CPS agencies are overwhelmed. Social workers could have to deal with 50-70 people, depending on whether they are working with parents, siblings, teachers, or children.
“Social workers have high case loads and they have to work regular hours,”Judge Ernestine S. Gray is the president of trustees for National Court Appointed Special Advocates Association (CASA). “A social worker might only get to see a child once a month.”
These social workers are partnered with some volunteers to ensure that children don’t fall through the cracks. CASA trains volunteers as advocates for children. CASA volunteers work closely alongside children and their families after receiving training and approval from judges. To help find the best solutions, volunteers interview key individuals in the child’s lives. They can also testify in court on behalf of the child.
“Outcomes for the children are better when CASA volunteers get involved,”Gray. “CASA volunteers help children graduate, get medical treatment, go to school, find permanent homes or improve the home situation, so children can stay with their parents.”
Take action for foster children so that they have a chance. CASA volunteers are needed. Visit www.nationalcasa.orgCall 1-888-805-8457 for more information.
