Hunterdon County Commissioners recognize CASA SHaW with proclamation and acknowledge April as National Child Abuse Awareness Month

HUNTERDON COUNTY, NJ – April is designated as National Child Abuse Awareness month, and recently the Hunterdon County Board Commissioners recognized the child advocacy organization, CASA SHaW (Court Appointed Special Advocates ~ of Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren Counties), that trains volunteers to serve as advocates in court for children living in foster care.

A proclamation was presented to CASA SHaW Executive Director, Tracey Heisler, in recognition of the organization’s tireless efforts to protect at-risk children and care for those who have experienced abuse or neglect.

CASA SHaW is also one of the recent recipients of grant funds in the amount of $48,000.00, awarded by the Commissioner Board through a local non-profit grant program, made possible by the County Commissioners using a portion of funding received under the American Rescue Plan.

Deputy Director Susan Soloway presented the proclamation and said, “On behalf of myself and the entire Board, I want to thank the volunteers and advocates of CASA SHaW and recognize their unwavering dedication to the children they support and protect. There is no more precious treasure than children, and the guardians entrusted with their care, bear a sacred duty. The dedicated volunteers of CASA speak up for the best interests of children, ensuring they receive the assistance they need during challenging times.”

CASA began in 1977, when a Seattle Superior Court Judge became concerned about trying to make decisions on behalf of abused and neglected children in foster care without enough information. The idea was conceived to appoint community volunteers to independently investigate cases, make recommendations, and speak up in court about what is the best interest of the child.

The organization started with 50 volunteers and currently there are over 1,000 CASA Programs throughout the United States, and CASA volunteers have helped more than 2 million children find safe, permanent homes in which they can thrive.

For more information about CASA SHaW or to become a CASA volunteer, visit https://casashaw.org.