The Court Appointed Special Advocate program of Central Texas inducted 15 new volunteers at a swearing-in ceremony Oct. 16 in New Braunfels.

CASA of Central Texas and its volunteer advocates support abused and neglected children navigating courts, schools or the child welfare system.

The Central Texas chapter of CASA serves Comal, Guadalupe, Caldwell and Hays Counties and had 265 volunteers advocating for a total of 596 children in 2018.

“When [CASA] representatives come to our court, we know they are a neutral third party that has the kids’ interest No. 1,” State District Judge Bruce Boyer said. “It makes a difference when you have someone there who is speaking only for the child.”

Despite a record number of advocates serving for the Central Texas chapter in 2018, more than 600 children in need were not assigned a CASA volunteer last year. CASA volunteers commit to at least one year in the program and focus on one case at a time.

Volunteers typically include former educators, prosecutors, retired persons and other members of the community.

“As a prosecutor, I couldn’t really advocate for the victims, and now, I can be a true advocate,” said Kelly, a former prosecutor and now a CASA Central Texas volunteer. “I have some experience and have dealt with these types of cases, and it’s time to give back.”

To volunteer or for more information on CASA of Central Texas, visit www.casacentex.org.