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October 31, 2009

CASA for children welcomes 11 new advocates

The Court Appointed Special Advocate program, which serves abused and/or neglected children in Muskogee and Wagoner counties, recently certified 11 community volunteer advocates, according to a media release.

Each new advocate has completed 30 hours of required training and courtroom observation. District Judge Thomas Alford, who presides over juvenile court in Muskogee County, has appointed Melissa Davis, Vernice Frazier, Deanna White, Robbin Osburn, Cindy Pulse, Rachael Armstrong and Raydell Hensley to serve in Muskogee County. Angela Hardin, Angie Chick, Mandy Stockton and Melanie Lormer have been appointed in Wagoner County.

CASAs help children who come under the court's jurisdiction when their parents or caregivers fail to provide proper care and supervision or have committed physical and/or sexual abuse against the child. The Oklahoma Department of Human Services has supervision or custody of these children and most have been temporarily placed in foster homes.

Through their court appointments, advocates research the backgrounds of the cases, interview all parties and service providers who are involved in the child's life, monitor progress towards the case goals, and make recommendations to the courts. Their recommendations represent what they believe to be in the child's best interest. Advocates submit written reports and also appear in court at case reviews.

CASA for Children is a non-profit organization. Volunteer advocates must be 21 years of age and pass a background check. People from all cultures, professions, and ethnic and educational backgrounds are welcome.

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

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