Every child needs a champion

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Every child needs a champion. Courtesy Photo CASA

If Karen Rivera gets her way, every child in the judicial system will have an advocate. When parents cannot or will not take care of their children, CASA or Court-Appointed Special Advocate is an organization that fills the void.

CASA provides advocates for thousands of abused and neglected children in Delaware and Chester counties. Judges in family courts assign a CASA volunteer to a youth in need. The volunteer will advocate for that individual until he or she reaches the age of 21, according to CASA’s website.

Often, those in need can’t afford a lawyer. The advocate is trained to present the child’s need to court and make sure that they are treated properly until they find a safe, nurturing home. The numbers of youth needing help are increasing with as the prevalence of drug abuse increase.

Rivera has served on the board of CASA for two years. She was persuaded by a former judge and current board member Robert Keller, Esq. to join. “All of the board members are passionate,” Rivera said.

Rivera’s other hat is controller of Garnet Ford.  Seeking a way to raise awareness and funds for CASA in western Delaware County, Rivera approached the dealership owners, the Hendrixson family. They agreed to host a fundraiser at Garnet Ford to benefit CASA on Friday, Sept. 23, from 7 to 10 p.m.

Rivera said “We are honored to be hosting such a fun event at our dealership for a great cause. I cannot think of a more deserving organization.”  She said the public could assist CASA by attending the event or volunteering to become an advocate.

A buffet dinner will be provided by Pescatores with wine and beer included. Guests will dine and dance to the theme “Rhythm and Blues.” Jerry Jones, guitarist, will lead his band. Brad Hendrixson had heard Jones play at an event and suggested they play for the CASA event. When Jones was asked, he said he would provide the music free of charge.

The cost is $50 for a single ticket and $90 for a couple.  Tickets can be purchased online at  https://chaddsfordlive.com/product-category/casa-benefit/.

“We can’t wait to partake in this wonderful evening, and we are so grateful for the support of Garnet Ford,” Anne Shenberger, executive director of CASA Youth Advocates, said in a press release.  “Because they are funding the entire event, 100 percent of the proceeds will go to CASA.”

CASA also expressed gratitude to the event’s many sponsors, which include Delco Alarm, Hudechek Roofing, Pagano Funeral Home, John’s Appliances, Boeing Helicopter Credit Union, Concord Auto Body, Paul McHenry & Co Auto Parts, B & I Auto Parts Specialists, Stocker Glass, The Stables and The Coffee Station. The Rotary Club of Concordville Chadds Ford will be presenting a check for $5,000 – money raised during its popular Twisted Vintner event in June.

For more information about CASA, visit www.delcocasa.org. To learn more about Garnet Ford, located at 1610 Wilmington Pike in West Chester, go to http://www.garnetford.com.

 

 

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