Abused and neglected children of Mills County are in need of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) volunteers to be a “powerful voice” in court. The 4 th Judicial District CASA program is looking for committed, caring adults who can think independently, use good judgment in difficult situations and communicate effectively both verbally and in writing. There is a particular need for men and people of various ethnic and diverse backgrounds. Thirty hours of training is required.
CASA volunteers are currently advocating for 68 abused and neglected children in Cass, Harrison , Mills, Montgomery, Shelby and Pottawattamie Counties .
Mission Statement
The Iowa Court Appointed Special Advocate Program commissions community volunteers to serve as an effective voice in court for abused and neglected children, strengthening efforts to ensure that each child is living in a safe, permanent and nurturing home.
CASA volunteers are assigned to an abuse or neglect case by a judge. Their role is three-fold:
1. Investigate: They conduct thorough research on the background of the case, reviewing documents, interviewing everyone involved, including the child.
2. Report: they make reports to the court, recommending what they believe is best for the child, and providing the judge with information that will help him/her make an informed decision.
3. Monitor: CASA volunteers can be instrumental in assuring that a child or family receives services, which the court has ordered - things like substance abuse counseling or special education testing. CASA volunteers may be the only constant the child knows as he/she moves through the labyrinth of the child welfare system.
Two excellent websites for CASA : www.casanet.org and www.nationalcasa.org.
Please contact Anne Christensen , CASA Coordinator at (712) 328-4811 or toll free 877-435-0595 or email achristensen@pottcounty.com.
Mentoring with HEART
We'd like to match a mentor for your 6-14 year old son or daughter at school or in the community. For many young people the Mentoring program may be the best opportunity to receive the support they need to succeed in school and life. The mentor and student will develop special relationship and set goals that not only encourage the student, but also allows then to grow personally and professionally. At time the child will enjoy having another positive role model in their life during the school year.
Community Based Program all mentors will have the following background checks completed before they can be mentors. They must be 18 years old.
- Sexual offender registry
- Driving record
- Proof of car insurance and valid drivers license
- Child abuse registry check
- Criminal background check
- Character references
- Face to face interview with applicant
- Home visit (optional)
- Orientation
School based
- Must be 16 years old.
- Sexual offenders registry check
- Child abuse registry check
- Criminal records check
- Character reference
- Face to face interview with applicant
- Orientation
If you interested in becoming a mentor, contact Dean Bentley at 712-527-3034 or (cell)402-305-3395 or email at dbentley@aea13.k12.ia.us.
