The Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association recently held a swearing-in ceremony for a new child advocate, but officials say more volunteers are needed.

According to Melissa Caldwell, CASA Volunteer Coordinator for Boone County, Teresa Newsome was recently sworn in as a CASA volunteer.

Newsome is employed as a paralegal with Schafer and Schafer and in her new role as a court-appointed special advocate for children, she will speak up for abused, neglected and dependent children in court.

“These are kids that have been removed from their homes by Child Protective Services (CPS). The advocate is appointed by the judge and speaks mainly for the judge,” Caldwell said.

All CASA volunteers must go through a background check and screening process that includes many hours of training.

“They also have to be at least 21 years of age. There is no special advanced education required. Of course, they would have to pass Social Services background check and they would not be able to volunteer if they’ve had a case open with CPS,” Caldwell said.

Caldwell said she is in great need of more volunteers.

“We only have two volunteers right now and we need about seven; I’d take as many as I can get,” she told the Coal Valley News.

Anyone interested in volunteering to be a CASA worker, contact Melissa Caldwell, CASA Volunteer Coordinator for Boone County, at 304-307-4131.

Contact Joanie Newman at jnewman@coalvalleynews.com or call 304-369-1165.