Plains Pool Park becomes site of community event

PLAINS - For the first time ever in Sanders County, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) held a special barbecue Saturday evening at the Plains Pool Park to raise money for the program.

CASA, which was started 10 years ago, but began in Sanders County in April 2014, is a program specifically run for the advocacy of children in neglect or abuse-related court cases.

Linda Shrock, a CASA volunteer, said, “We’re not represented by the State, government, [or any] attorney, we are volunteers...”

According to the CASA Lake and Sanders County Advocate Job Description, trained CASA advocates are court assigned to a child in a neglect or abuse case. The advocate carefully conducts research on the case, checking documents, and conducts interviews with all parties. After reviewing the case, advocates will report to the court what they believe is best for the child, whether it is to stay with their immediate family, go into a foster care program, live with a relative, or be adopted.

In addition to being an advocate for the child, the volunteer also checks on the child to ensure his or her well being for the duration of the court case.

During the barbecue, for $10 per adult and $5 for children between the ages of 4-12, event goers were treated to burgers, hot dogs, and fruit salad. In addition to raising money from food sales, there was also a table with information and small items for raffle.

Ann Marie McNeal, the Director of CASA who sat behind the table, explained to people what CASA is and its goals. She explained how the group advocates for children and how the program started in Sanders County.

McNeal described how Polly Cavill, who worked for CASA in Missoula, was instrumental in starting the program, along with Betty Boehler. Set up underneath the pavilion,the band Dark Horse played country music and classic rock songs. Cavill played in the band and would often provide bits and pieces of information about CASA between songs.

The Sanders County program works in partnership with Lake County and uses much of its resources, McNeal explained to people. She said of the 16 advocates, four work in Sanders County. The partnership works within the 20th Court District. McNeal then added that the Lake/Sanders County CASA is involved in 60 child abuse or neglect cases as of July 18th.

During a break in the music, Cavill gave a very special thanks to all who helped with the barbecue. She mentioned that many local businesses and individuals helped set up or donated food or time to help organize the event. Cavill expressed her thanks to everyone and she said that one anonymous person donated $200 dollars during the evening.

Judy and Charlie Woolley, who sat next to the pavilion, simply put why they showed up to the event. Together they said, “To support CASA.”

Throughout the night until 10:00pm, people cycled through and the music continued at the park.