CASA Making a Difference

By Edwin Faunce-

For neglected and abused children, having to deal with local court systems alone can be extremely daunting. This is where the Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, can guide these children in the court system who are faced sometimes with having no support in their homes.

CASA’s website states that, “Every child has a right to a safe and nurturing home … and deserves the support and involvement of their community to make this all possible.”

To make this happen, court-appointed CASA volunteers go through training to deal with situations that their child clients have to deal with in Howard County Juvenile and Family Court.

From left to right, CASA volunteers Shelia Williams, Nichole Sharp, Judge Lynn Murray, Olivia Dillon, Chloe Nicholls, and Erica Bolinger. (Photo provided by Dominique Hayes)

One of the newest local CASA volunteers, Chloe Nicholls, described how she got involved with the program.

“All I knew about the program was that it advocates for children,” Nicholls stated. “Once you have proximity to real-life hardships, it makes it harder to pretend they are not happening.”

CASA volunteers are, according to their literature, “trained by professionals who have experience in both the court and welfare systems.” This allows the volunteer to have the skills and tools needed to take a case, review, interview, and then make a court report to the judge that will help them make decisions about neglected and abused children’s permanent custody.

Howard County Circuit Court Judge Lynn Murray praised the program. She appreciates what CASA volunteers contribute to the Juvenile Court in Howard County.

“I have presided over all Children in Need of Services (CHINS) cases in Howard County for the past 27 years,” Judge Murray stated. “The CASA volunteers come forth and give their kindness, patience, talent, and time to provide a much-needed voice to children who have been neglected and abused and are the subject of a legal system they can’t understand.”

Linda Kepner, a six-year veteran CASA volunteer sees the changes her work has brought about in her own life.

“I have become so compassionate about being an advocate for the children,” said Kepner. “It’s important for the children to know there is someone in their corner. All cases are different, but one thing is the same: children’s safety and health is our number one priority. To know you had a small part in the children and family in reunification is such a good feeling.”

After being in the program for a while, Nicholls feels much more secure in her role as advocate for these children.

“The CASA program is everything I hoped it’d be and more,” said Nicholls. “I get to meet directly with kids in the community and help make them be seen. The training has helped me feel prepared, and the staff is so supportive. The other volunteers are so welcoming, and I’ve already made some friends. I feel at home with CASA.”

For more information on the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Howard County, contact Director Holly Becker by phone at 765-454-5575 or via email at holly.becker@howardcountyin.gov.