A Local Office Helps Youth Advocates Create a Safe Space

Court appointed special advocates play a special role in Lincoln County. The area’s seven local advocates—all of whom are based in Libby—work with children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other life challenges, helping them navigate the family court system while serving as confidants and mentors. Despite their important community work, volunteers with Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lincoln County currently have to travel more than 190 miles to and from Kalispell to do required court documentation; due to the sensitivity of the cases, volunteers cannot access documents from home. The group’s executive director wanted to create a local office that would help CASA advocates better manage emotional and traumatic situations and ease the burdens on volunteers. In need of support, she reached out to LOR. LOR’s funding will help CASA of Lincoln County purchase computers, tablets, printers, and other supplies. With the new equipment and office space provided by the local college, advocates will be able to ensure that each child in Libby has a safe space and support.