CASAs deserve thanks

Since 1977 when a Seattle judge decided he needed more information and perspective about the children whose fates he decided in abuse and neglect cases, thousands have answered the call. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) was born - a codified system of trained, volunteer "guardians ad litem" who independently investigate the child's situation and advocate for the interests of that child in court.

The men and women who currently serve as CASAs in North Idaho, as well as all those who came before and all who will follow, ensure that hundreds of local children each year don't fall through the cracks in the judicial system. The other elements - prosecution, defense, the state child welfare agency - each perform their respective roles, but sometimes can't cover all the bases for both legal and practical reasons. That's where CASAs fit in. They add what they can to the picture, so judges can better determine the children's "best interests."

They do it on their own time.

They do it without compensation, except knowing they make a difference when it counts most.

They do it sometimes at great emotional cost and lost sleep, worrying over a child's uncertain future.

They do it quietly. By law, all they learn is confidential so they can't cry on a friend's shoulder when more poignant facts in a case may plague the mind.

And finally, after all that effort, they have to let go. It's so easy to fall for a child, and CASAs do. They dive into the depths of a child's life at its darkest time, care, and then often resign themselves to not knowing how it all turns out down the road. Is that child still safe? Happy? Did he or she become the beautiful person whose potential I saw?

In short, CASAs love.

On behalf of the entire board of the First Judicial District CASA, thank you. Thank you to all CASAs - and to the staff who also volunteer beyond call of duty and job description - for every hour, every tear, and everything you give.

Sholeh Patrick is a columnist for the Hagadone News Network and serves on the CASA board. Email [email protected]