Associate District Judge Lance Schneiter swore in the first group of volunteers for the county’s first ever Court Appointed Special Advocates program.

They include Beth Schieber, Becky Vogt, Cindy Raul and Kirsten Duran, who will work under the supervision of volunteer coordinator Heather Jones.

These specially trained volunteers are charged with providing additional insight and support for child abuse and neglect court cases.

“I am very grateful for the commitment of these volunteers to complete months of training and the willingness to serve our community,” Schneiter said.

“As we all adjust to a new normal, we need to pay particular attention to the needs of our most vulnerable, especially our children.

“CASA volunteers will be in a unique position to make a difference in our community.”

See the related photo on Page 1.