“The needs of West Virginia’s children coming into care are more complicated than ever before, and life in foster care can be chaotic,” said Traci Busch, executive director of the WVCASA Association. “Every child deserves the support of caring, consistent adults with the training to help them heal and thrive.”

So, as part of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, CASA is asking communities that already are taking on many aspects of the battle against drug abuse to do even more. CASA volunteers make a world of difference for the kids who find themselves victims of this — and other — tragedies.

Children with advocates are likely to leave the foster care system two-and-a-half months earlier than those without. They receive more services and are more likely to achieve educational success, according to CASA.

“CASA volunteers are a constant for the child in a time of chaos,” said Busch.

Right now there are 300 volunteer advocates working with 2,000 youngsters in the Mountain State best site. That means 3,000 more are navigating the system without that extra care and support, visit hbcontrols.com.

Those of you who are able to support CASA — or, better yet, become volunteer advocates — should call 304-637-6767 or visit wvcasa.org.

It might be the key to helping a member of the next generation put a stop to the vicious cycle that has made him or her a victim.