Scotch Plains, Fanwood Locals Appointed To CASA

SCOTCH PLAINS, NJ — A Scotch Plains and Fanwood locals, are among 13 Union County volunteers to be sworn in as court appointed special advocates (CASAs) last week.

“I decided to become a CASA after spending many years as an officer for a local non-profit board. I wanted an
opportunity to work directly with those who needed help the most," Judy Sturm of Scotch Plains said. "I am looking forward to making a positive difference in the life of a child.”

Carolyn Colonna became an advocate “because I felt something pulling at me to help children. … The mission of Court Appointed Special Advocates of Union County really spoke to me. I am the proud mom of two young adults. I love being a mom, and I feel called to help children both know they can be heard and to be a reliable presence in a child’s life.”

Superior Court Judge James Hely administered oaths to Sturm and Colonna and others from Cranford, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Hillside, Linden, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Westfield and Summit, before they were matched to a foster youth or sibling set ranging from birth to age 21.

After court observation of experienced CASA volunteers in action, the new advocates will meet their assigned youth.

Volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocates of Union County are extra eyes and ears for family law
judges hearing cases involving abused, neglected or abandoned children removed from home and placed in
foster care.

With court-ordered access to such parties as foster parents, doctors, caseworkers, therapists and teachers, the advocates incorporate findings into court reports for the judge and work to ensure the youth’s needs are met and best interests are protected.

There are more than 500 Union County foster youth that need an advocate and community volunteers are still needed, and are encouraged to join one of the fall training sessions that begin Sept. 17 (evenings) and Oct. 12 (daytime).

For details, contact Courtney at 908-293-8136 or [email protected], or visit casaofunioncounty.org.

(Image via CASA: From left - Carolyn Colonna and Judy Strum)

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