Suzanne Wisdom, executive director for CASA of Bradley County announced this week that a “memo of understanding” has been signed to expand operations into Polk County.
“We will be actively recruiting volunteers who want to become special advocates and represent children involved in Polk County court proceedings. We will also be searching for additions to the board of directors and possibly working to establish advisory boards for the new Polk expansion,” Wisdom said.
Approximately 90 children are represented by advocates in Bradley County courts through the CASA of Bradley County program.
Wisdom also said CASA of Bradley County received a National CASA operational grant for $38,000.
CASA of Bradley County was only one of two CASA organizations in the state to receive the grant, according to Wisdom.
Federal funds were slashed last year which have affected a number of CASA programs.
CASA of Bradley County is also seeking a partnership with United Way of Bradley County.
United Way officials have aided CASA in the past with grants from the Bradley Memorial Health Endowment Fund.
A United Way partnership would aid in operations for CASA of Bradley County.
The organization depends of several fundraising and awareness events such as the upcoming 3rd annual Melisha Gibson Light of Hope Moonlight Walk which will be held in October.
The Red Shoe Gala has also been a successful fundraiser for CASA.
“We are always in need for additional funding and we appreciate grants or donations from Tennessee Commission on Children and Youth, the Athens Federal Bank, Johnson Foundation and the United Way as well as many others who want to make a difference in the future of Bradley County’s children,” Wisdom said.
Wisdom said CASA is also in need of organizations and churches to join in sponsorship for the upcoming Light of Hope walk.
For additional information, contact Wisdom at 716-1844 or visit them on Facebook at CASA Bradley or the CASA Light of Hope Moonlight Walk.
