CASA for Kids: 'Baby Brock'

BABY CASA CASE OF THE MONTH: “Baby Brock”

A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer is needed to serve as a “Baby CASA” for newborn “Brock.”

The Department of Child Safety (DCS) took him into custody because “Brock” was exposed to substances in utero and was born with severe medical issues. The father’s whereabouts are unknown, and the mother has entered an inpatient drug treatment program. There is no parent willing and able to meet the needs of “Brock” currently. DCS was able to identify a maternal relative in the area who is willing and able to care for the baby, this is known as a relative placement.

Among the Baby CASA volunteer’s responsibilities: Monitoring “Brock’s” progress in his current placement; working with his pediatrician and other healthcare specialists to ensure that he receives services for age-appropriate developmental milestones and appropriate medical care; and making recommendations to the court about a permanent outcome for him.

Are you willing to give approximately 15 to 20 hours per month to advocate for an abused or neglected child in our community?

No experience is necessary, and comprehensive training is provided at no cost to the volunteer advocate. Once certification and training are complete, CASA volunteers spend time learning about the child and their needs, gather information about the child’s circumstances, advocate for services for the child, and provide information to the court about what is in the child’s best interest.

If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer and making a difference in the life of an abused or neglected child, please contact the CASA office at 928-771-3165.

EDITOR’S NOTE: The child’s name has been changed to protect the identities of those involved, and these children are not eligible for adoption at this time.