Featured Program: DeKalb County CASA
Children whose parents lose custody or are otherwise launched into the court system are powerless to make themselves heard, and often don't understand the events swirling around them. But a dedicated volunteer service is available to represent these children, and have their needs brought to the attention of the court.
Court Appointed Special Advocates of DeKalb County consists of volunteers who act as the bridge between a child and the legal system; they get to know each child they represent, find out how the particular legal matter their parents or guardians is affecting them, and speak on behalf of the child before the bench.
Jill Olson (left) is Executive Director of CASA; she and President Ted Rosenow (right) are among those who stand with these children, who through no fault of their own find themselves embroiled in their family's legal issues. While the State of Illinois and DCFS are responsible for the physical safety and care of these children, CASA volunteers handle the legal needs and the issues which led each child to this situation.
Olson says the cases they get vary, but they generally involve abusive parents or neglectful ones with substance abuse or behavioral problems. She says she has encountered plenty of cases where a parent paid little attention to the needs of their child, who may have either a week family support system to help with their care -- or no system at all.
She and Rosenow say there is an ongoing need for volunteers to help; some are attorneys who take on these matters pro bono, but anyone with sufficient training and interest can advocate on behalf of a child. Anyone seeking more information, or to offer their services, can call at (815) 895-2052...or go to www.casadekalb.org