CHD’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Hampden County is seeking new volunteers to serve as advocates for children in need in the community.

Staff will host six information sessions in September to help prospective volunteers learn more about the role in advance of the next round of training.

The program works with Springfield and Holyoke Juvenile Courts—through one-on-one advocacy—to improve stability, opportunities, and permanency outcomes for children in foster care, according to CASA Assistant Director Gina McDonnell (pictured).

CASAs share important information about children involved in each case with presiding judges, including educational, medical and therapy records, to help them see the full picture. They also meet with other adults involved in the case and make recommendations to protect each child’s mental and physical well-being.

During the virtual information sessions, prospective volunteers will learn more about how they can make a vital impact on the lives of children in need and what they can expect from training. All volunteers are completely supported by CASA staff throughout their training and as they begin taking cases once training is complete. Virtual info sessions will take place on September 8, 9, 15, 16, 22, and 23, from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.

If you or someone you know may be interested in learning more about becoming an advocate with CASA, learn more at chd.org/casa or register for a virtual info session.