April is National Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month. In recognition, the Eighth Judicial District Court and the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Program will host the community’s Sixth Annual Light of Hope Ceremony to recognize the critical need for permanent, loving homes for child victims of abuse and neglect at 4:30 p.m., Thursday (April 20) in the Family Court Atrium, 601 N. Pecos Ave.
Currently between 2,500 and 3,000 children remain in foster care in Southern Nevada due to abuse and neglect. During the Light of Hope Ceremony, candles will be lit symbolizing the promise of safety and permanency to children with abusive and neglectful backgrounds and foster children will talk about their experiences, lighting a candle and making a wish for those who come after them. There will be a focus on siblings separated in foster care.
CASA volunteers and young survivors of abuse and domestic violence will be available at 4 p.m. for media interviews.
Also Thursday beginning at noon, the community is invited to visit the Family Court Atrium, where many child welfare service treatment providers and adoption agencies will be available to answer questions and provide information about their services to children and families in the community. Included in the group will be adoption and foster care agencies, as well as protective and therapeutic services.
For additional information or media assistance, contact Michael Sommermeyer, Court Information Officer, (702) 671-4534, or Pat Thacker, CASA Program Manager, (702) 455-4306.
