The South Dakota Community Foundation recently awarded a $10,000 South Dakota Fund grant to the First Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocate Program. CASA defends children’s rights impacted by abuse or neglect. Funding will assist in strategic planning focused on volunteer recruitment and fundraising.
“Empowered by this grant, we’ll evaluate our current volunteer recruitment outreach methods and use these funds to strategically evolve volunteer recruitment and fundraising efforts,” states Jackie Horton, Executive Director, First Circuit CASA.
Established by Davison County Child Protection in Mitchell, SD, the FCCASA Program defends children’s rights impacted by abuse or neglect. Their belief is simple: every child deserves a committed CASA volunteer, meticulously trained to echo their best interests. Their mission unwaveringly strives to support and promote court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and have the opportunity to thrive. Judges rely on CASA volunteers for their proficiency in partnering with diverse professionals, from social workers to educators. As designated court officials, these volunteers undertake in-depth assessments, offer informed recommendations, and, crucially, furnish the court with an unbiased child-centric view.
“We are very proud to collaborate with CASA on their mission to support children of neglect or abuse by giving them every opportunity to thrive,” says Ginger Niemann, SDCF Senior Program Officer. “Having an advocate to offer support ensures they are taken seriously and that their rights are respected.”