BupGrade loves the kids.  Especially those who feel like no one does.  Like abused and neglected children, many of whom have ended up in foster care and in our court system.  While such a predicament is terrible for any child, we’re especially disturbed that African American children are so overrepresented.  While the generation below us is only 15% of the population, they make up 35% of the child welfare system.  And us? Well, we’re definitely not doing our part: only 12% of the volunteers at CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) are black.  We appreciate that others are reaching out to help children without regard to ethnicity, but if the tears we shed on November 4th taught us anything, we know the power of being able to look up to people who look like us.  CASA volunteers serve as advocates for children who have ended up in the court system due to abuse and neglect.  As a volunteer, you’ll be given  background information on the child you are responsible for, and will be charged with being there for every step along the way: taking in-court notes, interviewing important people in the child’s life  and providing support and guidance in the child’s best interest.  As the case wraps up, you’ll voice your findings to the judge and have real impact on your child’s future.  Worried about your time? After a required 30 hour training, you’ll only have to give up about 10 hours a month.  To make a lifetime of difference.  Visit CASA for more information.