The board of directors of the 15th Judicial Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocates recently recognized Ed McCloud, who served as a board member for four years, one of them as president of the board.

Virgie Simmerman, who served on the board from 2003 to November 2007, was also recognized.

The reception, hosted by the current board, was attended by State Rep. Joe Aull. McCloud was presented with a plaque featuring children’s art work. The art came from poster contest entries created by area children, depicting their feelings about home and family. Since CASA works to help children who have been abused or neglected obtain a safe and permanent home, the art work relays the mission of the 15th Judicial Circuit CASA organization.

CASA recruits and trains community volunteers who advocate for abused or neglected children who have become involved in the court system as a result.

As one of more than 900 programs nationwide, the 15th Judicial Circuit CASA program is accredited by the National CASA organizations, meeting all standards for effective programming. In Saline and Lafayette counties, 30 community volunteers have completed a 32-hour training program prior to providing services for children. Volunteer advocates are appointed members of the court; judges rely on the information provided by the advocates to make decisions in the best interests of the children served.