George Bentz is sworn in as a Court Appointed Special Advocate over Zoom.
Photo courtesy Christopher Janetzko
HOOD RIVER — Columbia Gorge CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) has welcomed George Bentz to its team of volunteer advocates. Bentz was sworn in over Zoom in December after completing training to be an advocate.
Bentz moved to the area in 2001. He first became familiar with CASA from his sister, who serves as an advocate in Portland. Upon recent retirement from his own business automating packaging lines, Bentz decided it was time for him to become a volunteer advocate for children.
Bentz, like all advocates at Columbia Gorge CASA, completed an extensive screening and training process approved by the National CASA/GAL Association.
“I think the thing that struck me most from training is how many kids do not have an advocate looking out for their needs and wants,” he said. “I was also surprised on how much this is needed right here in the Gorge.”
Now that Bentz has been sworn in, he will meet with a court assigned child on a regular basis to learn about their needs. Additionally, any time the child’s case is reviewed in court, it will be his responsibility to give the judge an update on the child’s life and make recommendations in the child’s best interest.
“I had a great time training George,” said Program Coordinator Leah Campbell. “George shows a lot of self-awareness and brings an open-minded approach, both of which are essential tools for advocacy work.”
Those interested in becoming an advocate for children can visit gorgecasa.org. There are still many children in our region who could benefit from having an advocate for them. CASA’s next training for new volunteers will start in the spring.
Columbia Gorge CASA is partially funded with grants from the State of Oregon, United Way of the Columbia Gorge, Ford Family Foundation, Roundhouse Foundation, Oregon Community Foundation, Healy Foundation, and the James and Shirley Rippey Family Foundation.
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