Twelve new volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children (CASAs) were sworn into service May 10 by Criminal Court Judge Christopher Feliciani, it was announced this week.

Graduates of the CASA training program this spring includeRonel Baccus, Greensburg; Kathleen Baker, Saltsburg; Joyce Benson, Greensburg; Jackie Errett, North Huntingdon Township; Philomena Hanson, Greensburg; Judith Holtz, Pleasant Unity; Kacie King, Mount Pleasant; Lisa Langton, Jeannette;

Carol Mintus, Greensburg; Kate Sell, Murrysville; Candace Simek, Export; Tomisha Stevens, Greensburg, and Jackie Woody, Apollo.

Also in attendance at the graduation and swearing in ceremony were Family Court Judge Jim Silvis, Family Court Hearing Officer Hope Aston, Esq., Westmoreland County Commissioner Gina Cerilli, CASA board member Sharon Nies, the CASA staff, and family members and friends of the new advocates.

CASA of Westmoreland Inc. is a volunteerbased organization providing a voice in the courts on behalf of abused and neglected children in Westmoreland County. CASA assists the courts to ensure the child's placement in a safe, permanent, and nurturing home as he or she progresses through the court system. A loving, secure and permanent family is always the goal for every child.

For additional information on how to become a CASA volunteer, or to make a donation to the program, visit www.westmorelandcasa.org, or call 724-850-6874.