Serving Sullivan and Hawkins Counties, Tennessee            
                                                             
   
    
 

Why CASA


Home. For many people - the lucky ones - the word "home" evokes memories of a safe childhood place. There were people "at home" who cared for you as no one else ever did. However, each year millions of children are neglected, abused, or abandoned by their families. And in Sullivan County and Hawkins County, the sad reality is that our statistics relay similar tragedies and a desperate need for advocacy.

Every year there are over 2000 referrals to the Sullivan County and Hawkins County  Departments of Children's Services. Of these reports of concern the majority are alleged neglect cases.

Eventually these young victims end up in Juvenile Court. It is up to our Juvenile Judges to decide their future. Should they be returned home where they may be abused again? Should they be put in foster care, which is expensive to taxpayers, and the child may be victimized again by the System? Should they be considered for adoption? These weighty decisions require not only wisdom, but information.

That's where CASA comes in. CASA Volunteers are Court Appointed Special Advocates for children - trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to "speak up for a child" in Court.

If you are broken-heartened and outraged when you read about child abuse in our community, you can help by becoming a CASA Volunteer. Read on for more information, then call CASA for Kids, Inc at (423) 247-1161  to find out about the next training class. If you want to help make a difference for abused & neglected children, you can also do so by sending your financial support to CASA for Kids, Inc; 317 Shelby, Suite 206; Kingsport, Tn 37660.