CASA of Henry County, Inc., an organization dedicated to advocating for the best interests of children in foster care, announces their inaugural class of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) volunteers. CASA volunteers are appointed by a juvenile court judge to gather information, provide an in-depth report to the judge, and make recommendations that best meet the needs of each child. CASA of Henry County marks Georgia’s 159^th and final county for CASA program coverage in the state.

One hundred eighteen incidents of child abuse or neglect are reported daily in the state, and every day, 22 children are victims of confirmed abuse or neglect in Georgia. Last year alone, 2,500 CASA volunteers advocated for over 8,600 children in our state’s legal custody, providing each child with impartial advocacy that nurtures hope, seeks solutions, and stands in the gap between a challenging present and a promising future. 

“I am incredibly honored to be a part of bringing best-interest advocacy to the children experiencing foster care in Henry County,” said CASA of Henry County, Inc. Executive Director Lisa Dawodu. “For 35 years, CASA programs across Georgia have trained community volunteers to help ensure children who experience abuse or neglect can thrive and reach their full potential with the support of permanent connections to family. Our first class of CASA volunteers are paving the way for our county and closing a gap in our state. We are proud of their dedication to the CASA mission of reaching every child and family in crisis.”

CASA of Henry County’s CASA volunteers will be sworn in by Judge Bartles on Friday, February 23rd at 9:30 at Henry County Judicial Center. Their names are: