Community members swear in as CASA of West Texas volunteers

MIDLAND, Texas (KMID/KPEJ) – Monday afternoon saw five community members being sworn in as new CASA of West Texas volunteers at the Midland County Courthouse. These five volunteers will serve the Midland, Howard, Dawson, Gaines, Andrews, Martin and Glasscock counties.

The volunteers will be assigned to one child or sibling group to advocate for their best interests in courts, schools or other settings. Along with getting to know the children, they will also get to know everyone involved in the child’s life such as family members, foster parents, therapists, and many others.

Volunteers will make recommendations to the judge overseeing the child’s case, with the goal of ensuring that the child is safe, and the family has the resources, support, and healthy relationships needed to heal.

“Ultimately, what I hope to change is to be a part of something bigger than myself and see if I can make an impact and help somebody that’s in need. For me personally, I always gravitated towards children and wanting to give back and serve the community. It felt very natural for me to pursue CASA,” said Chad Lllar, a new swear in.

Before being sworn in, volunteers had to take seven courses in six weeks in the classroom, online, as well as being in real time court cases.

“We really try to work with our volunteers to have them prepared to be ready to take cases that are assigned and help children that are in foster care go through the court system. It means a great deal to know that community members care about children, and they want to advocate for them and help give them a better life for their future,” said Volunteer Coordinator Sara Basaldua.

If you are interested in signing up to become a CASA of West Texas volunteer, you can find information on the organization’s website here .

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