CASA program launches in Medina County to give children a voice in court
New addition expands Ohio CASA Network to 48 programs, 61 counties
CASA of Medina County has been granted full approval and is now operating as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program in Ohio, after completing the new program membership process.
A program within The Children’s Center of Medina County, CASA of Medina County volunteers will advocate for the best interests of local children experiencing abuse and neglect.
This newest CASA program in Ohio will soon begin training volunteers, expanding the Ohio CASA Network’s reach to 61 Ohio counties.
“It is an honor to lead this program in this supportive, compassionate community,” said Program Director Erin Grohe. “I have seen the life-changing, positive power of CASA volunteer work. I would encourage anyone with a heart for children and the community to consider becoming a CASA volunteer. There is certainly a need in Medina County and across Ohio.”
The CASA of Medina County program will work closely with the Medina County Probate and Juvenile Court and The Ohio CASA/GAL Association to train volunteers and ensure that the best interest of each child is represented in the courtroom.
CASA volunteers are everyday people who commit to rigorous screening and specialized training. They accompany a child experiencing abuse and neglect through the entire court process, providing support, continuity, and advocacy.
The CASA of Medina County program is in the process of recruiting and training local volunteers.
Anyone with a passion for child advocacy and community service is encouraged to consider joining their mission to make a meaningful difference. No special skills or educational background is needed. CASA volunteers must be over 21 years old and pass a background check.
“We welcome CASA of Medina County to the Ohio CASA Network,” said Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens. “Launching this program was a joy and a true partnership between Medina County Probate and Juvenile Court Judge Kevin W. Dunn, the Children’s Center, and Ohio CASA staff. It gets us closer to reaching our ultimate goal of having a highly trained, committed volunteer advocate available for every Ohio child in need.”
Many of the children served by CASA volunteers are in foster care. There are 15,000 Ohio children in foster care at any given time. CASA volunteers serve more than 9,000 children annually.
You can learn more about the CASA of Medina County’s mission and sign up to become a CASA volunteer at the program’s newly launched website, MedinaCountyCASA.org.
Medina County is part of Ohio’s growing CASA network. To find a CASA program near you, visit OhioCASA.org.