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Local chefs cook to help abused kids

3 min read
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The most vulnerable victims of abuse and neglect are children. In Washington County, disadvantaged and troubled children rely on advocates to lead them on a path to safety and healing.

Organized by concerned citizens, child welfare agencies and the Honorable Katherine B. Emery, CASA for Kids, Inc. was established in 2002, following the death of an abused and neglected young girl. CASA’s mission has been to train volunteers to serve as fact finders and speak for children involved in the juvenile court system. Trained men and women work one-on-one with children who have been severely abused, sexually assaulted, neglected and/or have spent most of their lives in foster care. Court Appointed Special Advocates get involved with emotional and controversial issues relating to the children. The cost to provide quality advocacy is about $1,000 per child. Currently, 38 active CASA volunteers are serving 91 children.

Volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates typically spend eight to 15 hours a month on a case. They plan monthly visits with the child, parents or foster parents, the school staff and often with the child’s therapist, if needed. They also review issues with a CASA supervisor and CYS caseworker and confirm that any medical services ordered by the court are not overlooked. Concerns must be addressed, reports written and advocates are present at hearings promoting and protecting the best interests of children. Each case usually lasts 18-24 months.

To continue to meet the needs of these vulnerable children, the seventh annual “Chefs for CASA” event will take place at 6:30 p.m. April 25 at Bella Sera Event Venue, Canonsburg. Tickets are $85 per person. WTAE-TV’s Janelle Hall is honorary chair and mistress of ceremonies. This festive evening of great food and friends includes entertainment by singer and “American Idol” semi-finalist Adam Brock & the Ken Berrymore Trio. Adam’s repertoire consists of jazz, blues, soul, funk and gospel selections

Tempting your appetite, this year’s “Chef’s” evening will begin with saffron-crispy andouille risotto, fresh mozzarella, farro-stuffed mushrooms and antipasta crostini prepared by Nola on the Square. Relax and enjoy Domenica Merante’s fresh field greens salad – blue cheese pate, fruit compote and carmelized walnuts with champagne dressing. Enjoy homemade canestri noodles with a vodka cream sauce by Arlecchino Ristorante and succulent chicken romano with lemon butter sauce by Angelo’s Restaurant. Savor the tender braised short ribs by Bella Sera and a local favorite at Franco’s Trattoria, meatballs and veggies. Don’t forget to save room for Bartram House’s French macaroons complemented by Angelo’s famous gelato.

Plenty of winning opportunities will be offered throughout the evening: money tree raffle filled with more than $1,000 in gift cards and lottery tickets, and hotel accommodations in the Caribbean and Mexico through the silent auction. Chinese auction baskets, valued at $200 or more, include an overnight stay with breakfast at Nemacolin; Llardro jewelry donated by Louis Anthony Jewelers and a selection of family activities.

The mission of CASA for Kids, Inc. is to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in the Washington County juvenile court system. Trained community volunteers help the court make informed decisions to ensure safety and permanency in their lives.

Support for this program is provided through donations and grants from community residents, local businesses and corporations. To learn more about CASA for Kids, Inc. visit www.casawashingtoncounty.org or call 724-228-0414.

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