Children need CASA volunteers
Child abuse seems more heartbreaking when it occurs at the hands of a parent or caregiver, leaving the community asking how this happens. However, abuse and neglect are prevalent here, in Tulare County. This is our problem, as a community, with or without pointing fingers. Though it may provide a relief to name a person or agency as responsible, to do so often oversimplifies the complex reasons children in our community continue to suffer. Those of us who work or work alongside individuals in the foster care system know that our system is overburdened and underresourced, struggling to meet the demands. At the height of the struggles are budget cuts and staff reductions which place additional strain on an agency already stretched to the limit.
Meanwhile, children are at risk; they continue to suffer unimaginable abuse and neglect. Nothing will have changed, and all seems well until the next tragedy occurs. The cycle will repeat itself until the community comes forward to meet the challenge. That’s where awareness and education become valuable. At CASA we provide orientations and trainings that turn questions into answers.
You can help by becoming a CASA Volunteer, or simply becoming educated about the true reasons behind child abuse and, in turn, educate others. A court-appointed special advocate speaks up for our children in court and social services proceedings. CASA provides an opportunity for the community to become part of the solution. Since 1984, more than 900 CASA volunteers have provided a voice in court for more than 1,700 abused and neglected children in Tulare County
There are many allies in the fight to stop child abuse in our community, agencies/individuals that provide mentoring, counseling, monetary gifts. Additionally, neighbors and family members step in to provide child care, transportation or lend an ear to listen. We need additional people to step forward and make a commitment, small or large, to ensure our most vulnerable citizens and most valuable assets — our children — are safe from harm. Join CASA of Tulare County. Let’s work together for the children of our community. Eric Johnson, E.D. Visalia