CASA Raising Funds Through Parade Of Playhouses
Like many nonprofits across the country, the Court Appointed Special Advocates program, or CASA, is in need of more funding.
The local program, which covers a 10 county district in eastern Idaho, is trying to raise $20,000 through the first annual Parade of Playhouses.
Five playhouses, worth $3,000 to $4,000 each, have been built and donated by community organizations, and will be raffled off to raise money.
The national CASA program recruits and trains volunteers to represent the best interest of children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect.
Board members said nationally in 2010, more than 75,000 CASA volunteers served more than 240,000 children.
Currently in Idaho District 7, 54 volunteers and 59 volunteer attorneys are representing 150 children.
Board members said the need now is greater than ever.
“We’re seeing a growing number of children being removed from the home due to abuse and neglect,” said CASA board member Chelsea Oyler. “It is absolutely crucial to have this program in court for the child. They’re the only voice for that child, the only person speaking to that child’s best interest. They’re not going to find that anywhere else.”
Tickets are available until Sept. 18.
You can buy them at the Ammon farmer’s market on Friday night, the Idaho Falls Key Bank market on Saturday, as well as the Parade of Homes next Thursday through Sunday.
Tickets are $5 each or five for $20.
You can also by raffle tickets at the CASA office at 490 Memorial Drive, Suite B1.
Several corporate sponsorships have made this project possible: Johnson Bros., EIRMC, Key Bank, BMC West, R&S Roofing Supply, Ted Lancing Materials, and Calvary Baptist Church.
