Two new CASA volunteers sworn in

By M. Scott Carter

July 01, 2009 01:15 am

— Nine new CASA volunteers were sworn in by Judge Richard Kirby at the Oklahoma County Juvenile Center June 26.
Two of the new Court Appointed Special Advocates live in Moore: Susan Brown and Alice Young.
Brown has a master's degree in professional writing from the University of Oklahoma. She and her husband have had foster children in their home in the past.
Young has her master's in communications from OU and owns Brown O'Haver Public Adjusting. Having 13 nieces and nephews, she has been around children quite a bit and expects to find personal satisfaction as a CASA by helping kids who need to have someone be their voice of reason in court.
"CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens who take on the enormous responsibility of being the eyes and ears of the juvenile court judges," said Alex Corbitt, volunteer recruiter for CASA of Oklahoma County.
Prospective volunteers must be at least 21 and able to pass a background check and an intense interview. Those who pass will be provided with 34 hours of specialized training on such topics as court process, dynamics of abuse and neglect, understanding families, interview and report writing and case procedure.
Those interested in volunteering in Cleveland County can call 360-5295. For Oklahoma County call 713-6607.