Kingsland CASA for the Highland Lakes Area is forming its third training class of 2012. CASA is a non-profit organization that speaks up for the best interest of abused and neglected children in Blanco, Burnet, Lampasas, Llano, and San Saba counties. A CASA volunteer is appointed by a judge to provide factual information on behalf of a child caught in a difficult legal process. CASA recruits and trains volunteers to provide a voice for children after they have been removed from their home by the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services because of abuse and/or neglect. CASA volunteer training is scheduled to begin the last week in June. Application forms must be received at the CASA Office no later than Monday, June 11, 2012. Following background checks and acceptance into the training program, volunteers must complete a 30 hour training session and three hours of courtroom observation. Distance learning is an option for a portion of the class time. Volunteers must be 21 years of age or older. Children deserve to grow up in a safe, permanent home where their basic needs—food, clothing, shelter and education—are met. You can help children who have suffered abuse or neglect by becoming a CASA Volunteer.Since its inception 20 years ago, CASA for the Highland Lakes Area has served over 1,600 abused and neglected children. In calendar year 2011 alone, 97 volunteers served over 245 children who needed an adult to help them through the foster care system. If you would like to know more about how to get involved as a CASA Volunteer, please call the CASA office at 325-388-3440 or email: ginner@highlandlakescasa.com