PRESS RELEASE For Immediate Release: 2/15/2008 Contact: Michele Edgcumbe, 610-565-2208 CASA Youth Advocates Introduces Thirteen New Volunteer Advocates CASA Youth Advocates is proud to welcome thirteen new CASA Volunteers. Renee Brunson, John Casey, Debbie Doyle, Michele Edgcumbe, Latosha Gibson, Meghan McDonald, Barbra O’Brien, Dianne Scartozzi, Rachel Shaffer, Joan Smith, Gary Spangler, Christine Wiita and Deanna Winkelvoss all took the oath this morning at the Delaware County Courthouse in Media, PA, after completing 35 hours of intensive training. This oath was administered by President Judge Joseph P. Cronin. A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a trained volunteer appointed by Juvenile Court to review, monitor, and make recommendations on behalf of children who are involved in the Delaware Court dependency court system due to abuse or neglect. Children who are represented by CASA Youth Advocates have a distinct advantage in that their interests are represented by a volunteer who has an opportunity to gather comprehensive information to support the work of the Children and Youth Services worker, the Guardian ad Litem attorney, and most importantly, to provide well-informed recommendations to the court based on the best interests of the child. The CASA’s only job is to represent the best interest of the child. CASA Youth Advocates is a non-profit organization serving abused and neglected children involved with the child welfare system of Delaware County, Pennsylvania. CASA was established in 1992 by Delaware County leaders, including President Judge Battle and community advocate Jane Nolan-Orr. Currently, more than 850 children are under the jurisdiction of Delaware County Dependency Court because they have been abused, neglected or abandoned by their parents or caregivers. Most have been separated from their parents, siblings, and other family members. Many suffer with mental illness, developmental delays, chronic health problems or other disabilities as a direct effect of the abuse and neglect. CASA volunteers ensure these children receive the attention and support they deserve and help facilitate safe, permanent placement in a loving home. For more information, please visit our website at www.delcocasa.org.