Imagine yourself, if you can, as a little 3-year-old child climbing into a tub to splash around, giggle a bit, and be squeaky clean when you’re done. Instead, that tub became a terrifying experience at the hands of an adult who was supposed to protect you. You awake in a medical unit with burns you sustained due to being placed in scalding water…and it was not an accident. A child protective case was filed and you were removed from the home — through no fault of your own.

This is a true story. That 3-year-old was my nephew who, 25 years ago, was placed in my care. The memory of trying to help him feel safe again is imprinted indelibly in my mind and heart. A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) came to our home and to make sure that he was safe and protected. I was impressed that a judge had appointed CASA to solely look out for his best interests. I determined that one day I, too, would become a CASA.

Having now been a CASA for nearly five years gives me a unique insight as the new Director of Development for the North Idaho CASA. CASAs are appointed by the court and come from various backgrounds and economic status. This year, our 97 CASA volunteers have served more than 369 children in Idaho’s five northernmost counties. They attend court hearings, conduct child visits and advocate for services for the child. Many times, a CASA is the only constant adult presence in that child’s life until the case is resolved. CASAs give children, who have been abused or neglected, a voice in the court system when they would otherwise be voiceless.

CASA receives only one third of our funding from the state of Idaho to recruit, train and support our volunteers. On Oct. 30, from 6-9 p.m., we are having a fundraiser called CASA Uncorked. Please join us so we may continue to advocate for these innocent children in our community. My nephew was given a voice in the court system more than 25 years ago due to the CASA program. Doesn’t every abused or neglected child deserve the same in our community?

To purchase tickets to CASA Uncorked, please go to our website at www.northidahocasa.com or call (208) 667-9165. Note: 50 percent of the ticket price goes directly to North Idaho CASA and is tax deductible.

HILARY HOFFMAN

Director of development

North Idaho CASA