Don DeLong and Diana Nita, of Edwardsburg, are volunteers for the Cass County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. CASA was established in 1977 in a Seattle juvenile court as a means of gaining more information and assistance for abused and neglected children. Volunteers are court appointed, trained, and then advocate for children going through legal and social services such as foster care.  CASA is active in 49 states and in the District of Columbia with more than 76,000 volunteers, according the program’s official website.

How long have you been a CASA volunteer?

DeLong: We stared seven years ago when we were living in Saint Joseph. We were there for five years and then joined this one [Cass County] two years ago when we moved here.

What are your duties as an advocate?

DeLong: Since we are advocates, none of our kids live with us and are all in foster homes. We are required by the court to meet with each child at least once a month. Our job, as advocates, is to act as a mentor to the children and try to create the best environment possible for them. It is also critical that we earn their trust. I normally introduce myself and tell them that I am here for them and want to listen. I make it known that I will always follow through and not miss an appointment.

Nita: When we see them, it usually revolves around whatever interests the child might have. Our job is to report back to the court on the child’s well being and affirm that they are well taken care of. It also gives the kids a different outlook because we are able to provide them with things that their foster parents might not be able to afford, such as karate lessons or painting classes.

Why did you choose CASA?

DeLong: We’ve always felt like it’s important to give back. We’re very blessed to be advocates because this is one of the biggest areas in the state where our kids need support. There is a lot of drug and alcohol abuse going on and we thought it was important to get involved to try and help any kid we could.

What has been your most interesting experience while volunteering for CASA, and why? 

DeLong: I one time asked my kid how everything was going and he said, ‘It’s great! You know what it [foster care] really beats? Being homeless.’ It really crushes your heart knowing that this kid has been homeless. That’s what really got me because there are so many instances like that and we don’t even know about them.

What would you say to someone who is considering signing up for CASA’s volunteer class this fall?

Nita: We would encourage couples to do it. It makes the experience of being a CASA volunteer much easier because you have an immediate roommate to talk things over with. We really desperately need more foster parents and advocates and we urge people to open their hearts and their doors for these kids. Anyone who loves children would have a wonderful experience.