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| Library: Advocacy |
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Kids Helping CASA Becoming Popular Sight Across the Country |
| Document Author: National CASA - Carla Spaccarotelli,
Editor Publication: The Connection, Summer 03 Posted: 9/03 |
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We have a powerful potential in our youth, and we must have the courage
to change old ideas and practices so that we may direct their power toward
good ends. -Mary McLeod Bethune It is always inspiring to hear of young people directing their power toward good ends, especially when the “good end” is a local CASA/GAL program. CASA/GAL programs around the country have teamed up with community youth groups, faith based organizations, scouting troops and dedicated young people for fundraising and promotion. Although local programs focus volunteer recruitment efforts on finding and training adult advocates, positive partnerships have been established by including kids as “Friends of CASA”. Kids for Kids for CASA uses artwork from children to create unique and distinctive merchandise www.casacards.org the more popular being holiday greeting cards. Founded by board members of the Multnomah County CASA Program (OR), the program enables youngsters to use their creative talent to help raise awareness and funding that provides specialized assistance for abused and neglected kids. Student artist in the Virgin Islands are also giving back to their community by donating art for use in cards. Kids Creating for Kids for CASA sales benefit the kids being helped by the CASA of the Virgin Islands program www.casavi.org. Local Scout troops have stepped in to help CASA in various ways. Prokids, the Hamilton County CASA (OH) in Cincinnati distributed 75 handmade blankets created by Girl Scout Troop #3882. Volunteers then distributed the blankets during routine home visits. CASA Jefferson in Harvey, LA, called on their local Boy Scout Troop to prepare and help set up luminaries for their recent Light of Hope event. Joy Peacock, Director of CASA Jefferson says that in addition to energy and eagerness to help, “Kids bring a fresh perspective to tasks and the creative process in much the same way as our advocates to their cases.” She hopes to expand the involvement of children in special events planning and expand their program's involvement with all community children. CASA of Morris & Sussex Counties, Inc. (NJ) staff members Catherine Bawa and Terry Oakes, were recently invited to receive an offering donation from the children at Stillwater Presbyterian Church. To their surprise, Sunday school teacher and CASA volunteer, Carol Roof, worked with the children to coordinate a year-long special offering. After considering several charities, the children (ages 6-12) selected CASA to receive their offering because the money would help other children. Donations totaled nearly $700. Donating talent is another way kids are becoming involved. In recognition of Prevent Child Abuse month, Seward County CASA (NE) hosted a talent event and fundraiser showcasing 23 youngsters from the community. Valentine’s Day “donation boxes” were created by the Junior BETA Club at West Broadway Elementary School for placement at local merchants; the donation boxes helped raise money for the umbrella organization for the CASA Program of Hopkins County (KY). Not only do children inspire adults with their willingness to serve, but laughter and fun are usually part of the package as well. Peacock adds, “Children help to keep us invigorated and remind us of what is important...the welfare of ALL children!”
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