Ohio’s opioid epidemic extends far beyond the user. Innocent children of those individuals struggling through addiction, including babies born addicted, suffer as well. Many of us feel helpless and powerless. We want to help, but we don’t know how. However, you CAN help. You CAN make a difference in your community. One way is to consider becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (or “CASA”) for abused and neglected children in your local community.
Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children or “CASA” is a nationwide organization in which trained community volunteers, just like you, are designated by Judges to serve as a voice for children involved in abuse and neglect cases included those affected by the opioid epidemic. Unfortunately, the opioid epidemic has contributed to an increased caseload for courts dealing with abuse and neglect cases and there are not enough community volunteers to help the youngest and most vulnerable victims. In fact, Ohio CASA Executive Director Doug Stephens recently talked to Court News Ohio about how the opioid epidemic is driving a growing need for CASA volunteers. (Court News Ohio is a service of the Supreme Court Ohio.) In southern Ohio, where opioid use and overdose are especially prevalent, there are still eight counties without access to CASA. “In some of the counties that need it the most, there are the least amount of resources,” Stephens said. Read the full article here.
Borgess Law supports Ohio’s CASA program and volunteers its legal services to children in need. The need for community volunteers has never been greater. If you are interested in learning more about this critical and life-changing program, we are happy to help you make contact with your local CASA program. You can contact Borgess Law toll-free at (567) 455-5955. Also, more information about the CASA program can be found at casaforchildren.org.