Linden Local Appointed To Help Union County Children In Need

LINDEN, NJ — Edwin Charlotin, a Linden local, is among 13 Union County volunteers to be sworn in as court appointed special advocates (CASAs) last week.

“CASA of Union County provides me an opportunity to make an impact in my community, and to
associate with great individuals who are striving to provide better futures," Charlotin said.

Superior Court Judge James Hely administered oaths to Charlotin and others from Cranford, Elizabeth, Fanwood, Hillside, Westfield, Plainfield, Rahway, Roselle, Scotch Plains and Summit, before they were matched to a foster youth or sibling set ranging from birth to age 21.

After court observation of experienced CASA volunteers in action, the new advocates will meet their assigned youth.

Volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocates of Union County are extra eyes and ears for family law
judges hearing cases involving abused, neglected or abandoned children removed from home and placed in
foster care.

With court-ordered access to such parties as foster parents, doctors, caseworkers, therapists and teachers, the advocates incorporate findings into court reports for the judge and work to ensure the youth’s needs are met and best interests are protected.

There are more than 500 Union County foster youth that need an advocate and community volunteers are still needed, and are encouraged to join one of the fall training sessions that begin Sept. 17 (evenings) and Oct. 12 (daytime).

For details, contact Courtney at 908-293-8136 or cgreen@casaofunioncounty.org, or visit casaofunioncounty.org.

(Image via CASA: Edwin Charlotin)

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