A Special Appeal for Male Mentors and Advocates

[Guest Michael Parsons]

CASA DC offers two rewarding volunteer opportunities, both of which pair an adult (21+) with a young person (6 to 21) in DC Foster Care who has suffered from abuse or neglect.

 

Although we need all kinds of adult community members to step forward and help young people in foster care, we are especially in need of male mentors and male CASAs at this time. The next training begins September 17.

 

Mentors volunteer with a youth in the D.C. Foster Care system. Mentors utilize their unique experiences to teach their mentees the skills they need to navigate life successfully. Mentors spend a minimum of 4-6 hours per month with their mentees for a year-long commitment.

 

CASAs, Court Appointed Special Advocates speak up for children in the DC Foster Care system. CASAs are appointed by a judge to represent the best interest of a foster care child. CASAs form a relationship with a child, gather information, make recommendations and provide the court with valuable insight into a child's life. CASAs dedicate a minimum of 10-15 hours per month to their case for at least a year.

 

Please contact Michael Parsons, volunteer coordinator, at mparsons@casadc.org or 202-887-0007 ext. 101 to learn more about one or both of these opportunities.

 

Please forward this appeal to any men you know who would consider becoming a mentor or an advocate for a young person in foster care.