CASA volunteers needed in Grant County; 31 children are without an advocate
By Logan Bagett on Thursday, January 22nd, 2026 in Eastern/Southeast Oregon News More Top Stories
JOHN DAY – CASA of Eastern Oregon’s Training and Programs Manager Wendy Simer was on KJDY’s Coffee Time recently and expressed the organization’s urgent need for court appointed special advocate volunteers. Simer explained that while the CASA program is mandated by the state, the organization struggles to get adequate funding and volunteer help:
“CASAs are volunteers. They’re the only person on a case whose sole responsibility is the child’s best interests. So, it’s a very much-needed service, and, boy, do we need volunteers. [In] Grant County, we currently have 31 children with no voice. We have seen an increase in children and a decrease in our volunteers.”
Grant County Programs Manager Savannah Lovell was also on the episode, and mentioned what it takes to become a court appointed special advocate:
“Our CASAs go through a training. After that, they are appointed by the court to a case. They get to know the child, they get to know all of their records—medical, mental health, and get to know them personally. Then, when there are hearings or if there are any issues arise, that advocate will go to court and speak for the child’s best interest in court.”
The next CASA of Eastern Oregon training will begin February 3rd. Those interested in volunteering or learning more about the program can visit casaeo.org, where volunteer applications are available.
Listen to the full podcast below:
