7 Volunteers Sworn In as Child Advocates in Brown County

Seven volunteers in Brown County, Wisconsin just took an oath that will change children's lives.

After completing their training with CASA of Brown County, these community members are now ready to become court-appointed special advocates for children navigating the foster care system. Each volunteer will be assigned by a judge to advocate for a child who has experienced abuse or neglect.

The role is simple but powerful. Each CASA volunteer commits to spending one hour per week with their assigned child, building a relationship that often becomes the most stable connection in that young person's life.

"Our court appointed special advocates are often that one person that works with that child consistently," said Michelle Pierquet-Hohner, executive director of CASA of Brown County. They get to know what the child enjoys, check on their safety, and become a trusted friend during an uncertain time.

The volunteers then write monthly reports to judges about the child's well-being. These reports help inform critical decisions about the child's future, ensuring their voice and needs are heard in court proceedings.

Why This Inspires

In a system where children can feel lost or overlooked, these seven volunteers are choosing to show up. Week after week, they'll be the consistent presence that helps a child feel seen and valued.

They'll stay with their assigned children for at least one year, or until the case closes and the child finds a safe, permanent home. That kind of commitment creates stability during one of the most challenging periods in a young person's life.

CASA volunteers don't need special credentials or professional backgrounds. They just need compassion, reliability, and a willingness to be present for a child who needs an advocate.

These seven individuals just proved that ordinary people can make an extraordinary difference in their community.