CASA of Lexington asking for more volunteers amid shortage [Video]

LEXINGTON, Ky. (FOX 56) — CASA of Lexington is in desperate need of volunteers.

The goal of the organization is for volunteers to advocate through the family court system to ensure all victims of child abuse and neglect are safe and thrive in a permanent home.

In 2023, CASA of Lexington had 297 volunteers. This year, they’re looking to recruit 70 volunteers, however, they haven’t hit the halfway mark yet.

“We still need about 40 more new volunteers before the end of December,” said CASA of Lexington Executive Director Melynda Johnson. “But we’re only halfway through the year, so I’m hopeful that we’re going to meet that goal.”

Johnson said she believes the volunteer shortage started sometime in 2023.

“We think maybe a side effect of COVID, people are using discretionary time differently,” added Johnson. “However, there is such a need for CASA volunteers right now, right here in our own community, across Central Kentucky …