Organization represents, protects kids

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - When a child is abused or neglected at home, the state puts the child somewhere safer while their case moves through court. In the meantime, the child needs someone checking on them and representing them in court.

In Marion County, that person is a Child Advocates.

Child Advocates is an organization that was created to represent and protect the best interest of children in Marion County who are involved in legal proceedings by providing each child with Guardian Ad /CASA services. Staff members & community volunteers are part of a legal process that ensures these children receive a safe, permanent home.

These volunteers are assigned to the cases of children who have been victims of life-threatening abuse or neglect and - as a result - have been placed in protective custody. Child Advocates volunteers contact caseworkers, interview parents, ensure necessary medical care, look out for educational interests and make recommendations in court Judge Marilyn Moores regarding the permanent placement of the child.

"What we get from Child Advocates is the child's point of view, as well as a view of the child's world," says Judge Moores. "Are they in a safe environment? Are there educational needs being looked after? On a scale of 1 to 10, its the 12. It is absolutely essential."

Judge Moores picks up a stack of papers five inches tall and lays it on the conference table in front of her. The hundreds of pages in the stack represent the case-load that's come into her office during the last eleven days.

"This is a 14-year-old who has been molested by her step-father," says Judge Moores, reading off the first page of the stack.

Each case involves a child who's been abused or neglected and will have a Child Advocates volunteer assigned to monitor the child and then represent their wishes in court.

"The system, as it stands, benefits the parents," says Judge Moores. "The Child Advocate is the one person representing the best interest of the child. Without them, I can't make a judgment on a case!"

In child abuse cases in Marion County, both the parents and the State of Indiana are represented by legal counsel. There was a time when the children had no one to represent them. That changed in 1982 with the creation of Child Advocates.

"I wanted to be a part of this because I knew it would make a difference," said Regina Garland, a Child Advocates Volunteer.

Regina is one of dozens of volunteers who follow children who have been removed from dangerous homes and put into the foster care system. When asked if she felt like she was helping the children she works with, she responded, "Even if its just someone for the kids to talk to and inspire them to do better in school. Yes. I'm making a difference."

To become a Child Advocates volunteer,