An appointment ceremony was held Friday, Feb. 8, at the Jasper County Courthouse for Emily McConkey, a volunteer who will be serving abused and neglected children in need of assistance. The ceremony was officiated by Senior District Court Judge Terry Wilson.

McConkey is joining other volunteers with the Iowa Child Advocacy Board, which provides oversight and training for the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program.  CASAs are persons from all walks of life who make a commitment to become the “eyes and ears” of the court for the children or family to which they are assigned.

The CASA volunteer does a thorough assessment by reviewing records and talking to parents, social workers, teachers, and others who have knowledge of the child’s situation. The CASA then writes a report to the court with recommendations and continues to monitor the child’s progress by attending staff meetings and court hearings.