COLUMBUS, Ind. – Advocates for Children proudly held a Swearing-In Ceremony at the Bartholomew County Courthouse last Thursday to officially welcome and honor its newest Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers and staff.
The ceremony, presided over by The Honorable Magistrate Brittney Long, recognized the dedication of 12 individuals who have committed to advocating for children’s best interests in the child welfare system. Although many of the volunteers had already begun their advocacy work, this ceremonial oath formally acknowledged their service.
The new CASA volunteers sworn in include: Arianna Arenas, Aditi Bhangale, Sierra Burton Ghuman, Stacy Findley, Etta Greathouse, Christina Hunter, Komal Pitney, Stacey Maignan, Michelle Shipley, Caitlin Smith, Jennifer Struffert, and Erin Walters.
A reception followed the ceremony, celebrating the volunteers’ commitment to making a lasting difference in the lives of children across Bartholomew, Jennings, and Decatur counties.
Advocates for Children trains and supports CASA volunteers, who judges appoint to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. These volunteers ensure every child has a voice in court and the opportunity to grow up in a safe, permanent home.
To learn about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit apowerfulvoice.org/