Oak Cliff resident sworn in as Dallas CASA volunteer
Adrianne Jackson of Oak Cliff was recently sworn in as a Dallas CASA volunteer advocate for abused children by The Hon. Cheryl Lee Shannon, Dallas County Judge, 305th Juvenile District Court. As a CASA volunteer Ms. Jackson will serve as a voice for children who have no one else to speak for them.
Dallas CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a non-profit organization of volunteers appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the foster care system. CASA trains and supervises volunteers to gather critical information and make recommendations that help judges make crucial decisions about each child’s well-being.
“Dallas CASA volunteers are everyday heroes who give abused and neglected children powerful voices and better chances of finding safe, permanent homes where they can thrive,” Dallas CASA executive director and president, Kathleen LaValle said. “It’s an amazing gift to give a child whose only wish is to be safe and loved.”
Amidst an overwhelmed child welfare system, a CASA volunteer often is the only constant person during a frightening and uncertain time in a child’s life. The CASA volunteer will be with one child or one family of children for as long as they are under the protection of the court and help ensure that the children have safe homes with loving families.
“I have a caring heart and a passion for Dallas kids. I would love to make a difference in the life of a child and help children who are less fortunate than my own” said Ms. Jackson.
CASA volunteer advocates spend the time necessary to get to know everyone involved in a child’s life. The volunteers talk to family, teachers, attorneys, caseworkers and doctors so they have a full understanding of the child’s situation. Volunteers also help access the services that these children need to heal from their abuse.
