Volunteers wanted to represent children in Spokane courts

Spokane County’s legal advocacy program for children says it needs more volunteers.

The court-appointed special advocate program, known as CASA, was launched in 1980 and currently has about 150 trained volunteers who speak in court on behalf of children who have been abused or neglected.

“They are the judge’s eyes and ears and voice of the child,” said program manager Pat Donahue, a local defense attorney. “They really get to know the child and how they’re doing and what needs to be done for them.”

CASA volunteers meet monthly with children under the age of 12, often examining their living situations or overseeing parental visitations. Many of those children are in foster care or have had contact with Child Protective Services.

There are CASA programs in more than 950 jurisdictions across the country. Spokane County’s program recently received national certification; it also includes six paid staff members called guardians ad litem.

The county’s program serves roughly 750 children.

“We’re always looking for more volunteers,” Donahue said.

CASA volunteers must complete a background check and 30 hours of training. Donahue said volunteers “come from all walks of life” and include educators, retirees and stay-at-home parents.

“The one thing they all have in common is they all have a passion for children,” he said. “It’s a tough volunteer job, but it can be very rewarding.”

Those interested in volunteering may call Donahue at (509) 477-2469. The next training sessions will run from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Jan. 20, 21, 27 and 28.