OGLE COUNTY — Nobody longs for a safe and loving home more than a child in the abuse/neglect court system.   
As a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer, you are empowered by the Court to help make this dream a reality. 
Volunteers get to know the child by talking with everyone in that child’s life: parents and relatives, foster parents, teachers, medical professionals, attorneys, social workers and others.

They use the information they gather to inform Judges and others of what the child needs and what will be the best permanent home for them.
Becoming a CASA volunteer is an investment of time, energy and heart.  CASA volunteers are everyday citizens appointed by a Judge to speak for the best interest, safety and well-being of children who are victims of abuse and neglect. 
All volunteers must be 21 years of age, complete 30-hours of pre-service training, be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references, be available for court appearances and meetings with advance notice and be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed, on average 18 months. 
CASA-15th Judicial Circuit (serving Lee, Carroll and Ogle counties) is accepting applications for their spring 2017 training class.  Classes are held once a week for 3 hours and will begin in April and conclude in May. 
If you would like to request an application or are interested in learning more, please call Trisha Morrow, Executive Director, 815-222-6780 or email casa15thdirector@gmail.com.
The deadline for applications to be turned in is Monday, April 3.