LANCASTER, PA (December 13, 2018) – Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lancaster County recently held their year-end Volunteer Swearing-In Ceremony. Over forty friends, family members, and CASA supporters witnessed Judge Thomas B. Sponaugle swear in twelve volunteer advocates during a ceremony held November 19 at the Emerald Foundation, 2120 Oregon Pike, Lancaster, PA.
CASA volunteer advocates are appointed by the court to represent the best interests of children in foster care with the belief that all children deserve safe, nurturing, and permanent homes. CASAs are asked to meet with the child regularly and are authorized to interview people in the child’s life such as social workers, attorneys, and teachers. They attend court hearings with the child and report their findings to the judge. CASAs speak on behalf of children in the foster care system – ensuring they don’t get lost in an overburdened system.
"I am delighted that we continue attracting volunteers from all walks of life with a variety of professional and educational backgrounds. Regardless of their backgrounds, all of them simply want to help the most vulnerable members of their community," said Jessica Laspino, CASA Executive Director.
The November 2018 class members are:
Jason Burkholder, Lititz
Diane Gottlieb, Lebanon
Teresa Caruthers, Ephrata
Bev Kennel, Willow Street
Adele Ruszak, Lancaster
Jordan Schonhaut, Millersville
Sherri Stauffer, Manheim
Terri Small, Lancaster
Sophia Wanner, Lancaster
Liz Yocum, Millersville
Linda Williard, Lancaster
Lisa Wood, Lancaster
CASA is central to fulfilling society’s most fundamental obligation by making sure a qualified, compassionate adult will fight for and protect a child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the security of a loving family.
The next advocate training session begins February 20, 2019. If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CASA volunteer and the rewards that come along with advocating for the best interest of abused and neglected children, please contact CASA by calling 717-208-3280, or emailing casa@casalancaster.org.
