Presiding Judge Timothy Wright, CASA Monika Sneezy, and CASA Coordinator Patti Dremler.
On Wednesday May 30, 2018 Monika Sneezy took an oath in front of the Honorable Judge Wright to become Court Appointed Special Advocate.
Monika completed 30 hours of specialized training provided by the program and has made a commitment to be a voice for a child that has been removed from their home due to abuse or neglect in Gila County.
“We are excited to welcome Monika to the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program in Southern Gila County,” said Emily Leverance, coordinator for CASA of Gila County. “Her enthusiasm and willingness to help will all make a difference in the lives of the children she will be appointed to.”
CASA volunteers are appointed to a case by a judge and spend 10-20 hours per month visiting the child involved in the case and researching what is happening in that child’s life. They act as the eyes and ears of the court and send a report to the judge before each court hearing so the judge has complete and unbiased information to base decisions on—in addition to the reports a judge receives from child welfare professionals.
The CASA program in the southern part of Gila County is in dire need of additional volunteers. The program welcomes any volunteer who meets the eligibility requirements regardless of their employment status. There is no specific degree or experience needed to become a CASA volunteer. Volunteers must be 21 years of age or older, a U.S. citizen, and pass thorough the screening process. All training for the position is provided at no cost to the volunteer.
More volunteers are needed for this important position. CASA volunteers provide a valuable service to judges and also become a consistent person in the life of a child while in foster care. If you are interested in more information please visit CASAofGilaCounty.org or call 928-402-4427.