PORT ANGELES – Clallam County’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program uses staff and volunteers to guide children through the court system who have experienced abuse or neglect, and it’s one of the most successful CASA programs in the state.
It’s relied heavily on grants to operate, but one major grant from the state did not come through this year, leaving them with a shortfall and concerns about future funding sources.
County commissioners have been working to keep the program afloat while CASA staff and County Administrator Rich Sill evaluate their options.
Commissioner Mark Ozias says the Board has found enough money in the budget to continue the program at least through this year.
Despite its success, the program has been operating with a bare-bones staff for years, and only recently added two-and-a-half paid volunteer coordinators.
CASA Coordinator Val Brooks, appearing on the Todd Ortloff Show, made her case as to why it makes sense to find the funding soon, before cuts have to be made.