CASA of Lancaster and Lebanon Counties celebrated the swearing in of its 48th class of new court-appointed special advocates on June 18. CASA staff members, board members, and community supporters gathered at Lebanon United Way as The Honorable Charles T. Jones, Jr. swore in the new class of volunteers. The event was the culmination of more than 30 hours of training completed by each volunteer in order to assist children in Lancaster and Lebanon counties' foster care systems.

The six new advocates are Omar Henriquez of Landisville, Mike Roberts of Strasburg, Karen Feather of Annville, Sandy Vigilante of Lititz, Michelle Hess of Lebanon, and Kathy Ball of Newmanstown.

Court-appointed special advocates are trained volunteers appointed to advocate for the best interests of children who have been placed in the foster care system because of abuse or neglect.

Anyone who would like more information about CASA and what volunteer advocates do may attend a Becoming a CASA In-Person Information Session on Wednesday, Aug. 20, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. To learn more and register, visit http://www.casalancleb.org/volunteer or call 717-286-1430.