Two Vance Airmen volunteer their time as advocates for abused children

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Frank Casciotta
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Two Airmen from the 71st Force Support Squadron are certified court appointed special advocates. They volunteer their time as guardians of abused children.

As CASAs, Staff Sgt. Kanita Pruitt and Airman 1st Class Le'Ona Wallace, act as the voice of the child they are assigned to during court hearings. Their job is to ensure cases end swiftly and the child's best interest is served.

They completed 40 hours of training to become CASAs.

Once assigned to a case by a judge, the CASA researches facts based on current living conditions and background information to assess the child's overall well-being. Once an assessment is made, they will suggest possible therapeutic measurements that will assist with the child's recovery.

For Pruitt, this program really hit home.

As a junior in high school, she discovered her 2-year-old nephew was being sexually abused by a family member.

"I wasn't able to do anything about it, and that's the worst feeling in the world, especially when it is someone you love," said Pruitt, in a whisper. "Since then, I've wanted to be able to help.

"I'm looking forward to my first case," said Pruitt. "I want to jump into it and put my training to use."

Wallace joined the program because it was an opportunity for her to work with children.

"I initially signed up for the program because it's about helping children and I wanted something to do," said Wallace. "As I went through the training and learned more about how CASAs affect a child, I really fell for the cause. It's an important role to play.

"I'm both nervous and excited for my first case," said Wallace. "My biggest fear is being put on a case that will take several years, and then getting an assignment before it's finished."

For more information about being a CASA volunteer, contact Melissa Thomas, volunteer coordinator for the Garfield County Child Advocacy Council, 580-242-1153.