Guest Column: Closure of CASA Montana state office will not effect local services to children

After more than a decade supporting local CASA programs and volunteer advocates with supplemental training, outreach, and statewide coordination, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Montana’s state office will discontinue operation October 31, 2016.

The CASA of Montana state office added value to the efforts of Montana’s local CASA programs, whose role has always been – and remains – to recruit, train, and coordinate the volunteer advocates who directly serve our endangered children in court. 

Although the state office will no longer be a part of that process, CASA of Hill County and our team of tireless volunteers will continue to advocate for abused and neglected children in Chouteau, Hill, and Liberty Counties.

As the changes in the nonprofit environment which led to the closure of the state office continue to impact the 15 local CASA programs, it is that much more important for our local communities to rally in support of those programs. Your support will help CASA of Hill County continue our vital work for children.

The need for CASA has never been greater.  In 2015, 15 active volunteer advocates served 68 abused and neglected children right here in Hill & Chouteau Counties, a 62% increase over the number of children served in 2014.  With 41 abused children in our area still awaiting a CASA, now is the time to support CASA of Hill County.

CASA of Hill County is just starting a new FLEX Pre-Service Training class, and there is still time to join and become a CASA. Abused and neglected children right here in our community are waiting for a CASA to lift up their voice. You could be the difference in a child’s life.

To apply to become a CASA or for more information on CASA in Montana and along the Hi-Line, please call Mark at 265-6743x1135 or email [email protected].