Community Partner Spotlight: The Center for Children and Families

by Emma Banes

On Episode 311 of our Live Better Podcast, we spoke with Anna Grimmett, a member of the executive team at the Center for Children and Families in Monroe, LA. We discussed our community partnership and how they provide safe environments for children through advocacy, counseling, education, and prevention.

One of the ways they help support the children and families in our community is through their CASA program, which is a volunteer program. CASA stands for “Court Appointed Special Advocate” and they train community members to speak up for children that have been abused, neglected, and are in the foster care system. Since so many children come through this system, it’s easy for some to be overlooked, and that’s where the CASA volunteer comes in. CASA volunteers spend an average of two to eight hours a month with the child getting to know them, their teachers, relatives, and caseworkers. When it’s time for court, that CASA volunteer submits a report to the judge on behalf of the child with recommendations. This really helps because the judge will only know what’s on paper, which makes the volunteer’s thoughts and recommendations very valuable.

Another way The Center for Children and Families is giving back to the community is through the annual event called The Christmas Project, which started several years ago when they reached out to a local store for a donation of soccer balls for the children they serve. Over the years, this project has grown tremendously. Towards the end of every year, The Center for Children and Families, along with their community sponsors, come together to buy gifts and fulfill children’s wish lists. This project ensures every year that each child they serve will receive toys and clothing for the holidays.

These are just a few of the many things The Center for Children and Families do to support the children in our community. We are so thankful for the many ways they give back, and we are thankful for their partnership with Centric Federal Credit Union. For more information on this organization and to find ways you can volunteer, visit www.standforhope.org or call (318)398-0945.