Eight new volunteers were sworn in at Menominee County Courthouse to serve as court appointed special advocates. From left, back, are Matthew Giffels, James Meek, Pamela Meek, Judge Daniel E. Hass and Lori Viau; front, Michelle Boucher, Diana Wells, Rena Lukowski and Molly Jansen.

MENOMINEE — Court-Appointed Special Advocates of Menominee County has welcomed eight new volunteers.

After completing 30 hours of rigorous training program, the new volunteers are ready to serve local abused and neglected children.

This is one of the largest classes in the non-profit’s 10-year history. The addition of eight new volunteers means CASA of Menominee County has more than doubled its volunteer pool to 15.

CASA volunteers are appointed by the judge to watch over and advocate for abused and neglected children. By pairing one volunteer per child and/or sibling set, CASA helps ensure kids don’t get lost in an overburdened legal and social service system.

At a special swearing-in ceremony at the Menominee County courthouse, the new CASA volunteers recited the volunteer oath led by Judge Daniel E. Hass. Volunteers Michelle Boucher, Molly Jansen, Matthew Giffels, Rena Lukowski, James Meek, Pamela Meek, Lori-Viau and Diana Wells were congratulated by Hass as he presented them with certificates of training.

“Thank you for your commitment to our children. You are the protectors of the young and vulnerable. You are the neutral eyes and ears for the court and a voice for the abused and neglected children,” Hass said.

Menominee County had 38 children involved in neglect and abuse cases in 2017. It is the only county in the Upper Peninsula that has a CASA organization.

“This event is the culmination of a lot of hard work and dedication. It takes a very special person to step forward and serve as a trustworthy, consistent adult for a hurting child,” said Amanda Merrell, executive director of CASA of Menominee County.

After the ceremony, Yooper Winery generously hosted a welcome reception for the new CASA volunteers.

To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer, contact Amanda Merrell at 715-923-7250 or casa@new.rr.com .