8th annual event spotlights need for more child Advocates across WI
Child abuse and neglect is an issue that often goes unnoticed because children can’t speak up for themselves. Unfortunately, there are thousands of Wisconsin children that know this all too well. According to the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, over 3,600 children were victims of maltreatment in 2023.
The Wisconsin CASA Association is once again asking for the public’s help in showing their support for abused and neglected children and volunteer Advocates who help their voice be heard. Thursday, April 17 marks the 8th annual “I am for the Child Day” and it’s simple for anyone to get involved. Just wear blue, the color of Child Abuse Prevention, and post a photo to social media, tagging @WisconsinCASA and use the hashtag #IAmForTheChildDay.
The online event not only shows support for children in need, but also shines a light on the need for more Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA); specially trained volunteers appointed by a judge to be the voice of an abused or neglected child or family of children. Advocates meet with the child(ren) weekly to get to know them and learn about the child’s needs, wishes and how they are responding to their environment. They communicate with the judge overseeing the case to help support a safer and healthier future for the child.
“I am for the Child Day is our yearly event to encourage those wanting to make a difference in their communities to consider becoming an Advocate” said Melissa Skalecki, Wisconsin CASA Executive Director. “CASA volunteers strengthen outcomes for children, enhance child safety and reduce the time kids spend in foster care.”
To learn more about Wisconsin CASA, including its multiple local programs serving 15 Wisconsin counties, and ways you can support Wisconsin CASA and children in need, please visit wisconsin-casa.org.
Wisconsin CASA Association champions and gives a voice to abused and neglected children by supporting and growing local CASA programs. Local CASA programs currently serve 15 counties in Wisconsin: Barron, Brown, Columbia, Dane, La Crosse, Manitowoc, Marathon, Marinette, Milwaukee, Monroe, Outagamie, Rock, Sheboygan, St. Croix and Vernon counties. To learn more, go to: www.wisconsin-casa.org. You can also find us on Facebook, Instagram,Twitterand LinkedIn.