Be the Voice of a Child
Why we Run 4 the Kids
When children have been abused or neglected they are thrust into a world of chaos. These children find themselves caught in a confusing system at no fault at their own. Last year there were 500 children who were abused and neglected in Will County. I am joining CASA of Will County in Running 4 the Kids to Stand Up and Speak Out against child abuse. Then on the day of the event I will wear the name of a child who was a victim of child abuse and run in their honor.
Together, we’ll be a part of making a difference in this important cause and we want you to join us and support us!
CASA of Will County is a member of the National and Illinois CASA Association and a proud recipient of the Will County Development Block Grant. Hundreds of children per year enter into the Will County Juvenile Justice System due to abuse and neglect. CASA offers these children a sense of comfort and a listening ear. But most importantly, we offer them a voice.
The Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program originated in Seattle, Wash., in 1977 by Judge David Soukup, the presiding judge of King County Superior Court. He was troubled by the small amount of time and information he was given to make decisions destined to change the lives of abused and neglected children.
CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused children and to ensure they do not get lost in the overburdened legal system or languish in foster care. They stay with each child’s case until it is closed and the child is placed into a safe permanent home with hope for a positive future.
CASA of Will County began serving abused and neglected children in late 1994. Our offices are located at the River Valley Justice Center in Joliet, which houses all juvenile court related services, including Juvenile Court. In the year 2000, the court began designating the CASA as the child’s GAL (Guardian Ad Litem), resulting in improved legal representation for these children. In 2018, CASA served 345 children, or 79% of those in need. With your help, we can reach our goal of serving 100% of the abused and neglected children in need of a CASA volunteer advocate.
CASA of Will County is a registered 501(c)3 with tax exempt status under the Internal Revenue Code. As such, your contribution may be deductible under section 170 of the code. Please confer with your tax advisor regarding your specific circumstances.
501(c)3 Letter | IL Tax Exempt Letter
