One special child

There are many lenses to witness the magic of Christmas, but the most powerful ones focus on the Christ child. Jesus entered the world as a helpless infant, born into a soon-to-be-refugee family, who would live in the shadow of danger his entire life. Considering the trauma surrounding his youth, is it any wonder that Jesus spoke out for the child throughout his life?

Of course, Jesus had an extraordinary mother, always nearby and ready to protect him … but there are children in Hill County who aren’t so lucky. Abused and neglected children are often without anyone to protect them, as their parents have been incapacitated by drugs, alcohol or mental illness, and themselves may have grown up in abusive homes, never learning the role of protector and provider.

More than 100 children in Hill County are away from their homes for the holidays due to abuse and neglect. Of these, only about half have a CASA volunteer to serve as their voice in the court and in the community. A Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA, gets to know the child and their situation and advocates for the child’s best interest, yes, with a judge and lawyers, but also — and often more powerfully and importantly — with social workers, teachers, therapists, counselors, even with the child’s own family.

A CASA is an ordinary citizen who is willing to work toward extraordinary results for the most vulnerable children in our community. Through 30 hours of pre-service training, anyone can learn practical tools and strategies to advocate effectively for an abused child. Ultimately, a CASA may become the one most powerful, positive influence in a traumatized child’s life: an uncompensated adult who is unconditionally interested in the child’s well-being.

This Christmas, as you celebrate the coming of that one special child many years ago, know that there is another special child who needs you today. Recall what Jesus would say about “the little ones” and “the least of these,” and honor Jesus’ words with action … for the child.

CASA will be hosting a number of Open Houses over the coming weeks leading up the start of the next pre-service training class in mid-January. We need special individuals to join our team and push the balance in Hill County in the child’s favor. Learn more at any of these Open Houses or by calling Mark at 406-265-6743, ext. 1135 or emailing [email protected].

Mark Douglass

Executive director

CASA of Hill County Inc.