New CASA Volunteers Sworn-In To Advocate for Children

Pictured from Left to Right: Amber Wright, Judy Martens, Carla Fivekiller and Ronnie Bishop take an oath promising to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children.

CASA for Children is proud to announce 4 new CASA volunteers have been sworn in to advocate for children that have been abused and neglected in Sequoyah County. 

CASA staff and volunteers gathered at the Sequoyah County Courthouse on February 12, 2019, to witness Amber Wright, Judy Martens, Carla Fivekiller and Ronnie Bishop take an oath promising to advocate for the best interests of children placed in the custody of the State of Oklahoma. 

The newly appointed CASA volunteers join 14 other dedicated community members who have been specially trained and are advocating for foster children in the county’s juvenile dependency court system. As officers of the court, they ensure that the children’s needs are recognized and that their best interests are considered both in the courtroom and in the community. 

CASA volunteers are a powerful voice for a child in need. Volunteers work directly with children and families to ensure the children’s needs are met for long-term safety and success. Volunteers act as direct advocates for abused and neglected children, ensuring they don’t slip through the cracks of the child welfare system.

“Not just anyone can be a CASA. It takes very special people with a heart for children and the courage to stand up for what is best for them,” said Suzanne Hughes, Executive Director at CASA for Children. “Many times, the CASA volunteer is the only consistent adult in the child’s life while in foster care. Our volunteers care deeply and advocate for each child until the case is closed and the child is placed in a safe, permanent home.” 

CASA volunteers complete 30 hours of classroom training prior to being sworn in and assigned to a case. Volunteers must pass an extensive background screening, be 21 years of age or older, and have a heart for children. 

CASA is in need of more great advocates like these men and women. Classes are forming now for the Spring advocate training to begin in April 2019. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CASA volunteer and the rewards that come along with serving as the voice of a child, please contact Jenny Crosby at 918-686-8199 or via email at jenny@casaok.org. You can make a difference in the life of a child. Be their voice. Be their CASA. 

KXMX News Staff

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