By Brian Shlonsky

More than 140 people gathered inside the Robert F. Stephens Courthouse Monday for a candlelight vigil that honored and swore in new volunteers working to give hope to abused and neglected children for Child Abuse Prevention Month.

Honorary guest speaker Margie Cherry, who at the age of three was separated from her siblings and moved through 28 different foster homes throughout her childhood, explained how Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA, volunteers remained a stable and important part of her life.

“I was shifted around so much, every time I saw an adult I didn’t know what to expect or where they were taking me,” Cherry said. “But CASA looks out for you, and makes sure you don’t fall through the cracks, and it makes such a difference. I knew that person was safe.”

CASA is an organization in which specially trained volunteers appointed by judges watch over and support abused and neglected children. The volunteers act as a constant in the children’s lives until safe and permanent housing can be found.

“CASA is part of a national chain that trains its volunteers to become advocates to speak up for abused and neglected children in the court systems,” said Joe Schuler, CASA of Lexington board president.

Eight new CASA volunteers, all of whom completed 30 hours of training, were sworn in by Judge Jo Ann Wise after vigil performances by the Lexington Singers Children’s Choir and the members of the Orchestra at SCAPA.

“When reviewing a case, I need all the input as possible from guardians, attorneys and etc.,” Wise said. “But I also have CASA, which gives a perspective apart from the legal system that is true life. CASA volunteers aren’t just important for the one-on-one relationships they have with the children, but their position is also very important in court.”

Jackie Brown, who has been a CASA volunteer for four years, stressed the importance of being a dedicated volunteer.

“It’s very important to do what is right for the children so they can feel safe and secure,” Brown said. “As volunteers, we try to gather as much information on the children’s situations as possible, talking with parents, teachers and observing the children to have information to be used in court.”

The 145 people in attendance held blue glow-sticks and pinwheels, each wheel representing four children who have been affected by abuse and neglect.

“I have raised 49 children in foster care,” said Klara Sayers of North Carolina, whose grandson attends UK. “Anything that raises awareness will help these children. They need and deserve good foster care and good foster parents, not just any care.”

Lexington Mayor Jim Newberry presented a proclamation to Debra King, Director of CASA in Lexington, proclaiming April as Child Abuse Prevention Month.