MuskogeePhoenix.com, Muskogee, OK

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August 25, 2008

Court advocates needed for abused and neglected children

Applications are being accepted for Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) for Children, Inc.

The next free advocate training session will begin the evening of Sept. 22. Interested persons may request an application by calling the CASA office at 686-8199 in Muskogee or 485-0075 in Wagoner. Completed applications are due by Sept.12.

The purpose of a CASA volunteer advocate is to protect and guide a child through the court system and to help them find a safe, nurturing and permanent home. Through their court appointments, advocates research the backgrounds of the cases, interview all parties and service providers, monitor progress towards the case goals, and make recommendations to the courts.They submit written reports and appear in court at case reviews. Their recommendations represent what they believe to be in the child's best interest.

The classes will be 5 to 9 p.m. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday evenings from Sept. 22 to Oct. 2. The training will conclude with certification by District Judge Tom Alford of Muskogee and Associate District Judge Darrell Shepherd of Wagoner. Volunteers are needed in both Muskogee and Wagoner Counties

Topics covered in the 30-hour training include courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system, and the special needs of abused and neglected children. Interviewing and information gathering skills are also among the subjects covered. Observation of actual courtroom cases in progress is also included in the training.

Volunteers must be 21 years of age and successfully complete a background check and a personal interview with CASA staff before beginning training. Volunteers are welcomed from all cultures, professions, ethnic and educational backgrounds.

Information: 686-8199 in Muskogee or 485-0075 in Wagoner.

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