Judge Robert Hofmann, of the Child Protective Court in the 33rd District conducted the swearing-in of four new volunteers recently. Pictured at right are: Ginner Boswell, Volunteer Trainer, Manuel Custodio, Barbara Booth, Judi Broadhurst, Jay Carey and Judge Robert Hofmann.

Following 30 hours of classroom instruction, four new court appointed special advocates were installed in a recent ceremony conducted by the 33rd District Court Judge Robert Hofmann.

The Court Appointed Special Advocates are community volunteers who act as a "voice in court" for abused and neglected children. CASA volunteers get to know the child and speak to everyone involved in the child's life, including their family members, teachers, doctors, lawyers, social workers, and others.

The information they gather and their recommendations help the court make informed decisions. Because of their important position in the court system, a CASA volunteer can make a lifelong difference in the life of the child they represent and stop the cycle of abuse and neglect for generations to come.

CASA for the Highland Lakes serves five counties: Blanco, Llano, Burnet, Lampasas, and San Saba. Currently there are more than 170 children in foster care with 91 volunteers who advocate for them in court.

Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer can contact the office in Kingsland at 325-388-3440 or visit our website at:

www.highlandlakescasa.com