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Nina, Wisconsin — In 2016, a local newspaper article changed the course of a man’s life in Nina.
But not soon.
What you need to know
- CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate
- CASA volunteers help abused and neglected children navigate the justice system
- Fox City needs volunteers, especially men
“I kept it in my fridge as a reminder, and a year later I finally called,” said Bill Hanley.
This article featured volunteers at CASA, which stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocate.
“I think it was intended,” said Hanley.
(Spectrum News 1/Jon Fuller)
CASA volunteers advocate for neglected or abused children in the justice system.
Hanley has been on the job for five years. He called it “mentoring with teeth”.
“When I see a child leave the house and they are so abused or neglected that they can no longer be there, my heart goes out to them,” Hanley explained. “I want to do everything I can to represent and defend that child in court so that their future is right and their future is right again. “
He volunteers at CASA in Fox Cities.
Executive Director Dawn Gohlke says Hanley has a “great heart” and connects well with the children he works with.
She said more male advocates like Hanley are needed in the region.
(Spectrum News 1/Jon Fuller)
“Less than 10 percent of our volunteers are men, but 50 to 60 percent of our children are men,” says Gohlke.
Hanley and other volunteers will be provided with training and ongoing support. From games to books to socks, CASA’s resource room items help supporters connect with children.
“Kids think they’re playing. They’re having fun and bonding with their supporters,” Gohlke explains. “We’re actually looking, do they know their colors? How many can they count? We’re looking for developmental milestones.”
Hanley used resources like football and baseball to bond with his children.
“The boys and I learned chess together. It was kind of fun,” said Hanley.
(Spectrum News 1/Jon Fuller)
The advocate will stay with the child until the situation is resolved or the child turns 18.
When the child turns 12, the tables are reversed.
“Advocates help empower children to share their voices so they can take an active role in the future,” said Gohlke.
According to Gohlke, children who have an advocate are about 90% more likely to do better in school. Volunteers like Hanley want to see children succeed after taking their first steps in life.
“They’re fighting. They’ve been through traumatic situations on the front of the house, they’ve been through the entire justice system, and it’s very stressful for young children.
Hanley and CASA said they hope a few more volunteers will step forward to help these vulnerable children through the difficult process.
“You don’t have to have a child welfare background,” Gohlke explains. “It takes a compassionate heart and a passion for children to make a difference and support them during difficult times.”
Fox Cities’ CASA will begin January 19 with a six-week, 30-hour training session aimed at those who want to become advocates.
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