Fills need, but more volunteers are still needed
[Port Allen, LA – Oct. 14, 2024] – The Honorable Alvin Batiste, Jr. officially swore in two new CASA volunteers – welcoming Gina Martiny and Jessica Cicero as the newest volunteers for CASA of the 18th JDC. Also known as Court Appointed Special Advocates, these amazing volunteers will work with the organization to advocate for children and families involved in the foster care system across Iberville, Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes.
“I decided to become a child advocate for CASA because I felt called to serve as a voice for children who are in the foster care system,” said Jessica Cicero. “I’ve always felt a great deal of compassion for children through my work as an educator, especially those from my community who are most vulnerable. I will work to ensure their needs are met, their rights are protected, and their voices are heard in court. It takes a village to raise a child and I’m proud to do my part.”
“Even in my pre-service training alone, I’ve seen the remarkable positive impact that CASA volunteers can have on the children and families they serve,” added Gina Martiny.
This new class of CASA volunteers will be assigned to a child or sibling group who they will commit to advocating for until the closure of their case. As a part of their advocacy, they will get to know important adults in the life of the child they represent, such as parents, foster parents, teachers, doctors, therapists and more.
“It is a long-term commitment and requires a lot of heart, but there just isn’t another volunteer experience that matches what you’ll get with CASA,” said Kendall Hebert, executive director for CASA of the 18th JDC. “Our volunteers are dedicated to doing their very best on behalf of the children and families they serve.”
CASA volunteers go through 30 hours of in-depth, pre-service training before they are appointed by a judge to their case. They advocate for the child they represent in every facet of their life and make recommendations to the court about their best interest. Volunteers advocate for reunification as their primary goal whenever it is safe and possible to do so. When reunification is not an option, they may advocate for the child to live with another relative or family friend. They can also advocate for the child to be placed in an adoptive home. In all cases, CASA volunteers are steadfast, consistent presences for the children they serve, making sure they are safe and have the resources and connections they need to grow and thrive. They work with families to build life-long support systems for both the child and parents that will continue after the case is closed.
“We’re so excited to have this new class join our team of volunteers,” said Hebert. “I know that they will do amazing work that will positively impact the children and families in the foster care system right here in our community.”
If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer or interested in supporting the organization, visit www.casa18jdc.org.