As the number of children entering foster care continues to rise in Wasco County, Columbia Gorge CASA is expanding its local presence through a new satellite office in The Dalles and the addition of seven newly trained volunteer advocates.

Columbia Gorge CASA unveiled at Maupin Daze its new playhouse to be raffled off. This year’s playhouse was built by students in the Career & Technical Education program at South Wasco County High School. Proceeds from the raffle support Columbia Gorge CASA’s advocacy for abused and neglected children.

Volunteer group providing voice for children in court notch a big win in race for kids.

Columbia Gorge CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is inviting community members to learn more about how they can make a difference in the lives of children in the child welfare system.

Amber Moore, a newly appointed advocate, says, “I wanted to become an advocate so I could actually make a positive difference for someone, actually physically go out there and bring more happiness to my community. There are a lot of issues in the world around us currently and while it seems like one person themselves cannot make a difference, they actually can! I encourage everyone out there to see what they can do to help their neighborhood.”

A simple friendship bracelet has more power than you think. And so do CASA volunteers as they assist in providing a consistent positive influence and voice for children who have been abused or neglected.