Judge Reed Dixon, Juvenile Court, Monroe County, conducted a swearing-in ceremony for four CASA volunteers and one new staff member on June 24.  CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, is a non-profit organization that serves as a child's voice in court.

"Many abused and neglected children who are going through the court system need someone to look out for them, advocate for them and speak for them," said Marion Leudemann, Executive Director for CASA.  "Some of these children are placed in several homes until a permanent situation can be found for them.  Our volunteers follow the child, report their situations to the judge and make sure the child's best interest is considered."

Currently, there are 21 CASA Volunteers who work out of the Madisonville office.  Nationally, there were nearly 60,000 CASA volunteers last year who advocated for more than 243,000 children.
"We are always looking for new people to join our team," said Jodi Swiderek, Volunteer Coordinator for CASA.  "Anyone 21 or older who cares about children can work with us."  Swiderek also noted that volunteers go through a very thorough 30-hour training program and must pass a police background check. 

Anyone interested in more information about the program can call the CASA office at (423) 442-2750.