Prairie Plains CASA Celebrates Volunteer Appreciation Week and Welcomes Newly Sworn-In Volunteers

McCOOK, Neb. - Prairie Plains CASA proudly celebrated Volunteer Appreciation Week last week by recognizing the extraordinary commitment of our CASA volunteers and Board of Directors. Their dedication ensures that the most vulnerable children in southwest Nebraska have a voice in the court system.

As part of this year’s celebration, Prairie Plains CASA is excited to announce the swearing-in of several new volunteers who recently completed extensive training and are now officially appointed as Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs). These individuals are stepping forward to walk alongside children during some of the most challenging chapters of their lives, providing critical support, consistency, and advocacy in the court process.

In the last year and a half, our 16 volunteers have collectively:

• Advocated for 58 children

• Driven more than 2,678 miles across southwest Nebraska to meet with children, attend hearings, and connect with professionals

• Completed 475 case service hours advocating directly for children

• Contributed 158 hours in continuing education and volunteer training

• Made 670 contacts with children through visits, calls, and check-ins

These numbers tell a powerful story of commitment: hundreds of visits, miles, and countless hours dedicated to giving children a stronger voice in the system.

We also want to recognize the crucial work of our Board of Directors, whose leadership, vision, and fundraising efforts allow our program to grow and thrive. Their work behind the scenes is vital to ensuring Prairie Plains CASA can continue training new volunteers, supporting active cases, and creating better outcomes for children.

In addition to celebrating Volunteer Appreciation Week, Prairie Plains CASA recognizes that April is also Child Abuse Prevention Month—a nationwide effort to raise awareness about child abuse and neglect and promote its prevention. Throughout the month, Prairie Plains CASA has been working alongside the Child Advocacy Team (CAT) to share important information with our communities about the importance of talking openly with children about abuse and the critical message that if you see something, say something.

Child Abuse Prevention Month serves as a reminder to individuals and communities that we all have a role to play in creating safer environments where children can grow up free from harm.

At Prairie Plains CASA, we know that making a difference in a child's life doesn't happen by accident—it happens because compassionate individuals choose to show up, advocate, and stand firm for the most vulnerable among us. We are honored and grateful to work alongside such remarkable volunteers, board members, and community partners.

If you want to learn more about Prairie Plains CASA, becoming a CASA volunteer, or supporting our efforts, please visit www.prairieplainscasa.org or call 308.345.8817.