As Child Abuse Awareness Month comes to a close, for those working for children in need around the community like Sherry Shepherd, director of CASA of Fulton County, child abuse awareness and advocacy is something thought about year round.
For the month of April, blue pinwheels can be seen along the sidewalk in front of the CASA office at 401 W. Eighth St. in Rochester – a symbol serving as a whimsical, childlike reminder of the role each adult plays in the community to keep kids safe by reporting any suspected child abuse.
Court Appointed Special Advocates, also known as CASA, is a national association that supports and promotes court-appointed advocates for abused or neglected children. The organization gives children from families involved with the Indiana Department of Child Services their own voice in court.
Shepherd first became involved with CASA in 2009 as a volunteer. Following her passion for advocating for children in need, she worked her way up the ranks and eventually became director of CASA of Fulton County in 2014.
"Kids don't deserve to be abused or neglected. If they are, they deserve a voice of their own so they can actually have a chance to tell their story," Shepherd said.
Though she has seen her share of happy endings for many of the children she's overseen, Shepherd said the job also comes with its own share of heartbreaks and frustrations.
"When I first started I had an idea of how emotional working for CASA would be. It ended up being more in-depth and involved than I had originally pictured, but as more time went on I didn't mind getting more involved. What inspires me is being able to make a difference in a child's life," Shepherd said.
Ran by mostly volunteers from the community who complete training provided by the state and appointed by a judge, a CASA volunteer's role is to gather information and make recommendations in the best interest of the child, while also keeping the child's personal wishes in mind.
Always looking to grow their team, Shepherd said there are currently 11 CASA volunteers in Fulton County. In order to even out the workload, Shepherd also helps the volunteers by taking on cases. Thankful for the dedication her volunteers provide, Shepherd said her goal is to eventually have 20 volunteers and welcomes anyone willing to commit to making a difference in the lives of local children.
To become a CASA, volunteers must be over the age of 21, be able to pass a local and national background check, and go through training. Shepherd said those considering becoming a CASA should be nonjudgemental and willing to stick around for the duration of a case, which is typically around two to three years.
Those interested in becoming a CASA volunteer can do so by calling 574-223-2183, or emailing casafultoncounty2@rtcol.com. Applications can also be found on their website at casaoffultoncounty.com.
Other ways community members can contribute to the nonprofit is by sending donations. Those wishing to donate can do so by sending checks to CASA of Fulton County, 401 W. Eighth St., Rochester, IN 46975.
As for upcoming community events, Shepherd said the second annual fundraiser pickleball tournament for CASA of Fulton County is Saturday, April 26, at the courts at 701 E. Sixth St., in Rochester, starting at 8 a.m. and running until 3 p.m.
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