Supporters and volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA, braved strong winds Thursday afternoon in front of the Nevada Legislature for a vigil to raise awareness of what the group does.
"Withstanding this wind is nothing compared to what the people who are involved with all the various issues surrounding the abuse of children deal with on a day-to-day basis," said Chris Bayer, executive director of CASA Carson City, at the conclusion of the event. "We need to remember that we are involved in not only our own dreams, but the dreams of children."
CASA volunteers help abused and neglected children, both in and out of the courtroom, where they can stand up for the child's rights.
Nevada Supreme Court Justice Nancy Saitta thanked the approximately 40 people gathered at the event for their service.
"I know we are doing something right," Saitta said. "It is our duty to go out and get one more friend, one more family member, one more person to be as vigilant as we are. You have seven members of your Supreme Court who are deeply committed to the cause of protecting our children, and any way we can help, all you have to do is call us."
Among those speaking to the crowd were Nevada Sen. Mark Amodei, Carson City Sheriff Kenny Furlong and Carole Thompson, the CASA volunteer who organized the event.
The Douglas High School Madrigal Singers also entertained the crowd despite the high winds. A reception followed afterward across the street at Comma Coffee.
The vigil was part of a series of events scheduled during April, which is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
CASA of Carson City
1545 E. 5th St.
Carson City, NV 89701
775-882-6776
casaofcarsoncity@earthlink.net
casaofcc.org