For most children and youth, summer break is an exciting time away from school --

spending time with friends, family, and loved ones. But for children living in situations of abuse or neglect, summer break can be something to dread. For them, summer break could mean:

For children living in abusive or neglectful situations, summer break often means fewer watchful eyes of teachers and school staff, so, often times we see an unfortunate increase in abuse and neglect during the summer months.

Year round, CASA volunteers build relationships with the children that they advocate for, and they visit their CASA child monthly -- serving as a set of watchful eyes looking out for signs of abuse or neglect. During the summer months, CASA volunteers may be the only adult keeping a consistent watchful eye on children, and can often spot warning signs of abuse or neglect, and make recommendations to the court in the child's best interest.

CASA volunteers are wonderful ordinary citizens who come from all walks of life -- but one thing they all have in common is a caring heart of service for children.

We are always accepting applications for volunteers! If you're interested in learning more about the CASA volunteer role or filling out an application, please visit www.casalakecounty.com. Please also consider sharing this email with a friend that might be interested.

Thank you for helping us to support children in Lake County, IL. who have faced abuse or neglect,

P.S. There are currently 26 children on our waitlist, waiting for a CASA volunteer.

Your gift in any amount supports our recruitment, training, and supervision efforts to provide a CASA volunteer to every child that needs one. Will you help us make sure that every child who needs a CASA can have one?

We are so grateful to the John & Kathleen Schreiber Foundation for their recent 3 year commitment of giving $150,000 a year to CASA and their continued support as a Mission Partner. Over the past four years, the Schreiber foundation has contributed nearly $700,000 to our CASA program...wow! Thank you for believing in and supporting the work of our advocates and staff.

Registration closes June 10th, and there are only 5 more foursomes available.

To CASA Ryan for his excellent youth-centered advocacy for his CASA teen. Ryan was instrumental in giving important health and safety advice to his CASA youth so the youth can make wise health and safety decisions. Ryan was able to have this important conversation as Ryan’s commitment to this teen has led to a trusting, honest and supportive relationship between the two. Thank you, Ryan, for always looking out for your CASA teen.

To CASA Michael who has been an exceptional child advocate for 10 years. Michael has advocated for three very complex cases, in which he has utilized his strength-based approach to working with his CASA children. He offers a listening ear and emotional support to his children, helping them navigate their feelings and experiences, to ensure his children feel heard and respected. He also asks each CASA child what they want to happen in their case, so they do not feel powerless in the child welfare system. Acting as a liaison between foster parents, children, caseworker, and teachers allows Michael to ensure clear communication and collaboration regarding the child’s needs and progress.