Kiwanis guest speaker speaks for kids

Christmas is a wonderful time of year for some, but it may not be joyous for child victims of abuse or neglect. Year-around help for such children was the subject addressed by Anne Gordon, at the Kiwanis Club luncheon, held on November 30th. Gordon is the current program coordinator and program director successor to CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), for kids in the Coulee Region. CASA is authorized to speak for abused or neglected children, in Monroe, La Crosse and Vernon counties.

Gordon said that judges decide whether or not an at-risk child should be removed from the home, put in foster care, or be identified as eligible for adoption. A county social worker, who works with the family as a whole, may be involved, or a guardian, but it is the Court Appointed Special Advocate who represents the child in an intimate and compatible way.

“Advocates are volunteers who maintain a consistent relationship with the child, at home and with those involved in their lives,” Gordon explained. “Their concerns are for safety and permanence. They must feel connected to the mission and its impact, pass a background check, have thirty hours of training and take an oath, before being sworn in by the judge.”  

Gordon said the nationwide non-profit organization has helped 250,000 children over the past year, but in her presentation she personalized its services. “I grew up with a difficult childhood,” said Gordon, “and am only where I am today because of the kindness of others.” She continued on, saying, “Currently there are less than thirty advocates serving our three counties [Monroe, La Crosse, Vernon], and the need for advocates is high, especially in Monroe County. There is a need for support in smaller communities. It does take a Village!”  

Gordon said that regionally, CASA is funded by small grants and is always looking for additional support, in the form of advocacy, donations and community outreach. Studies show that in addition to feeling helpless and fearful, there is an impact on a child’s brain development, mental health and future achievement.  

Gordon said additional information about the CASA for Kids Advocacy Program, or on funding opportunities, is available by phone (608) 615-7148 or email agordon@ywcalax.org

The Sparta Kiwanis Club, known for its volunteerism and social activities, meets for lunch and a brief program of regional interest on Tuesdays. For more information contact Doug Dengel, 608-633-6092.

The Sparta Herald would like to thank Kiwanian, Barbara Rice, for her contribution to this article.