Over 500 children in the Eastern Panhandle are currently involved in cases before the court system due to abuse or neglect. Record numbers of youth have been removed from their homes since the beginning of the pandemic, nearly double that of 2019. Thankfully, many of those children — usually the most challenging cases — are served by a dedicated CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer and supported by a highly skilled staff team. But more superheroes are desperately needed to help fight for their best interests in court and in this community. Children with a CASA volunteer typically spend 5 fewer months in out-of-home foster care, are less likely to re-enter the foster care system, and do better in school.
CASA of the Eastern Panhandle is hosting its second Superhero Challenge to raise support for the most vulnerable children across the region. Unlike a normal road race during which hundreds or thousands of runners gather on the same path at the same time, the CASA-EP Superhero Challenge can be completed at your own pace, in your own way, and wherever you go. Run, walk, hike, bike, and get active however you like to support this activity challenge throughout the month of October. Join the fun on your own, with your kids, friends, or colleagues, and get active for a good cause.
For more information and to register, visit MyCASAEP.org ($40/individual, $120/team).
By Staff Contributor