CASA volunteers sworn in

From left to right are Emily Layton (CASA executive director), Jaime Scott (volunteer advocate), Jackie Zukowski (volunteer advocate), Sabrina Shun (volunteer advocate), Kendra Cotton (volunteer advocate), Judge Sharon Guffee (Juvenile Court Judge), Magistrate Jacques Cabell (Juvenile Court Magistrate), Denise Lee (volunteer advocate), Kaethe Melia (volunteer advocate), Kelly Hancock (volunteer advocate), Nicole Moore (volunteer advocate), Amber Ross (volunteer advocate) and Sydni Dicke (CASA director of development).

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Eleven community members were sworn in as Williamson County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers on Wednesday. 

These volunteers completed the 33-hour training requirements prior to standing before Juvenile Court Judge Sharon Guffee to swear an oath to represent and advocate for children who have come into the court system due to abuse and neglect.

“Juvenile Court relies heavily on CASA to advocate for our most fragile children, those in abusive and neglectful circumstances,” Guffee said. 

Williamson County CASA trains its volunteer members to investigate these children’s situations, and report back to the court with their findings. CASA’s goal is for each child to be in a safe, permanent home. These 11 advocates join the other 74 advocates who are supporting over 400 Williamson County children annually.

CASA Executive Director Emily Layton and Development Director Sydni Dicke were among the new advocates. 

“It continues to amaze me that we live in a community where so many people are willing to step into difficult situations and do their part to change a child’s future,” Layton said.

“CASA is largely dependent upon our volunteers to carry out our mission,” Dicke added. “Without them, our work could not be done. These advocates are empathetic, patient, good under pressure, and most importantly, they have a genuine desire to help children.”

If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate, visit williamsoncountycasa.org or call (615)591-2699.