One Special Child

There are many lenses to witness the magic of Christmas, but the most important focus is on the Christ child. Central to the Christmas story is that Jesus entered the world as a helpless infant, born into a soon-to-be-refugee family, who would live in the shadow of danger his entire life. Looking at the trauma surrounding his youth, is it any wonder that Jesus spoke out for the child?

Of course, Jesus had an extraordinary mother, always nearby and ready to protect him…but there are children in Valley County who aren’t so lucky. Abused and neglected children are often without any protective person, as their parents have been incapacitated by drugs, alcohol, or mental illness, and themselves may have grown up in abusive homes, never learning the role of protector and provider.

More than 30 children in Valley County are away from their homes for the holidays due to abuse and neglect. Of these, only a handful has a CASA volunteer to serve as their voice in the court and in the community. A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) gets to know the child and their situation and advocates for the child’s best interest, yes, with a judge and lawyers, but also – and often more powerfully and importantly – with social workers, teachers, therapists, counselors, even with the child’s own family.

A CASA is an ordinary citizen who is willing to work for extraordinary results for the most vulnerable children in our community. Through 30 hours of pre-service training, anyone can learn practical tools and strategies to advocate effectively for an abused child. Ultimately, a CASA may become the one most powerful, positive influence in a traumatized child’s life: an uncompensated adult who is unconditionally interested in the child’s well-being.

This Christmas, as you celebrate the coming of that one special child many years ago, know that there is another special child who needs you today. Recall what Jesus would say about “the little ones” and “the least of these”, and honor Jesus’ words with action… …for the child.

Mark Douglass is the Executive Director for CASA of Hill County. CASA will be hosting a number of Open Houses over the coming weeks leading up the start of the next pre-service training class in mid-January. We need up to 6 special individuals to join our team and push the balance in Valley County. Call Mark at 406-265-6743 extension 1135 or emailing [email protected].