URBANA — The Champaign County Court-Appointed Special Advocate program (CASA) is looking for new advocates to speak for abused and neglected children in Champaign County Circuit Court.

"There continues to be a great need for additional volunteer advocates to work with these children. Unfortunately, the number of abuse and neglect cases in Champaign County is high and each one of these kids deserves to have his best interest represented in the courtroom," said Rush Record, CASA executive director.

CASA provides all the training necessary to become an advocate. No specific experience is required, but advocates must be at least 21.

The next 30-hour training program for new advocates begins Tuesday, June 7, and will be held three times per week until graduation ceremonies on Wednesday, June 29.

More information about CASA can be found on the organization's website at http://www.casa4kids.org or by calling the CASA office at 217-384-9065. Applications need to be in by May 31; a background check is required.

Champaign County CASA was established in Champaign County in 1994 and became the guardian ad litem for all abused and neglected children in 2004. CASA is a member of the National CASA Association, earning its certificate of compliance, as well as the Illinois CASA Association. CASA currently serves over 500 abused and neglected children in Champaign County.