The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lincoln County is preparing for a busy fall season with two upcoming community events — and a renewed call for volunteers to help support local children in the court system.
CASA Director Janet Vath announced that the organization will co-host a Halloween Party with the Lincoln County Children’s Museum on October 26 at AXIS and ACES. The event will run from 2 to 5 p.m. and feature games, a costume contest, and family-friendly activities. A $5 donation is suggested at the door, though Vath said anyone is welcome to attend regardless of ability to pay.
“It should be a lot of fun,” Vath said. “We just want families to come out and enjoy the afternoon together.”
Next month, CASA will host “Soups, Sips, and Stand Up for CASA” on November 14, featuring a soup supper, entertainment by a comedian, and both wine and whiskey pools. Guests can also purchase raffle tickets for a chance to win one of two quarter beefs, with tickets priced at $25 each. Tickets are available from any CASA board member, at the CASA office on the second floor of the FBNO building, or by calling 308-386-8393.
Vath said details for both events will be shared soon on CASA’s Facebook page and new website, which is expected to launch within the next week.
Alongside these community events, CASA continues its ongoing mission to recruit new volunteers to serve as advocates for children in the court system. Currently, 52 families — representing 93 children — in Lincoln County are waiting for advocates.
“Usually when you advocate, you advocate for the whole family,” Vath explained. “These children are in desperate need of voices in court.”
CASA advocates act as a consistent presence in a child’s life, gathering information about schooling, health, and home visits, and then reporting back to the court. Volunteers commit five to ten hours a month and complete a 30-hour training program that includes both classroom learning and court observation.
Vath emphasized that volunteers are not left to navigate cases alone: “I walk with you through your first case or two until you feel confident. We want advocates to feel supported every step of the way.”
She added that CASA’s role has become even more vital amid recent changes in the North Platte court system, including shifts in judges, attorneys, and caseworkers.
“Sometimes we’re the only constant person in these children’s lives,” Vath said. “Judges change, attorneys change, foster homes change — but CASA stays.”
Those interested in becoming a CASA volunteer or supporting the organization’s efforts can call 308-386-8393, stop by the office in the FBNO building, or visit CASA’s Facebook page for updates on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities.