Sayre, OK – CASA of Western Oklahoma will begin a new volunteer training session on May 19, 2025, and is calling on community members to step forward and make a lasting impact on the lives of foster children.

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers serve as the eyes and ears of juvenile court judges, gathering information from children, families, and other sources to help courts make decisions in the best interest of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Recently, CASA of Western Oklahoma swore in several new volunteers. The Honorable Judge Michelle Kirby-Roper of Beckham County officially welcomed Jeff Johnson of Sayre, Kellie Hurtgam of Elk City, and Keeley Sanders of Sayre as newly trained CASA Volunteers. In Custer County, the Honorable Stephanie C. Jones swore in Steven Parks of Weatherford. Steven and his wife, Kaci, who is also a CASA Volunteer, have witnessed firsthand the positive influence CASA can have on children and wanted to be a part of helping change their stories.

Executive Director Jackie Aaron reported that in 2023, 69 CASA of Western Oklahoma volunteers served 200 children across 90 cases. "The need for volunteers remains great," Aaron said. Many children are still waiting for an advocate to stand up for them in court.

Volunteers must be at least 21 years old, commit to a year of service, pass background checks, and complete free in-depth training. CASA offers a flexible “Flex Training” program, allowing part of the course to be completed online at the volunteer's own pace, combined with in-person sessions.

CASA of Western Oklahoma serves Beckham, Custer, Dewey, Roger Mills, and Washita Counties. Volunteers come from all walks of life — full-time workers, retirees, part-timers, and students — united by a shared goal: making a difference for children in foster care.

For more information on becoming a CASA volunteer, visit casawok.org.