By: Richard L. Smith
Six New Jersey residents have taken on a new role helping children in foster care navigate challenging circumstances by becoming volunteer advocates through Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Passaic and Union Counties.
According to CASA officials, Passaic County Superior Court Judge Maria A. Giammona administered the oath to Zeynep Balik of Wayne, Patricia Kurtz of Clifton, Andrea Mego Paz of Lyndhurst, Amy Bluestone and Karen Hawkins of Westfield, and Gwen Kelley of Chatham.
The newly trained volunteers will each be assigned to a child or group of siblings in foster care, helping ensure their needs and concerns are brought to the court’s attention.
CASA advocates work with caregivers, educators and caseworkers to monitor children’s well-being and provide recommendations that support their safety and stability.
Erica Fischer-Kaslander, executive director of Child Focus, which oversees the CASA program, praised the volunteers for their commitment while emphasizing that additional advocates are needed.
According to the organization, no previous child welfare experience is required. Volunteers receive training