FRANKLIN COUNTY (WSLS 10) - CASA is expanding into Pittsylvania County. The community volunteers are appointed by a judge to speak up for children in court. They lost about one third of the budget money after state cuts and changes in grant formulas last year. That meant cuts to programs and staff. They are looking at the possibility of more cuts as Virginia works to come up with a plan for the budget defect this year as the need for CASA services increases.
"We've seen an increase in mental illness diagnosis of children and caretakers as well as substance use. Those and inevitably impact almost 100% of the cases. If it's not both it's one of those conditions," said Joyce Moran, CASA Executive Director.
One way they are supplementing the budget is through the 11th annual Johnny CASA 5k and 5 miler. It's this Saturday starting at 8:30 a.m. In Rocky Mount.
"Not everyone can be a court appointed special advocate volunteer but everyone can do something to help protect children," said Moran.
To register you can visit any of the sponsors, show up the day of the race early or register online on the Johnny CASA race website.