Caleb McKinsey earned a standing ovation at CASA Day. While the State House gathering included remarks from lawmakers, volunteers, and other supporters, Caleb’s words caught the most attention.
The 18-year-old former CASAYouth stood before the crowded audience and performed a rap.
I’ve been evaluated by a bunch of doctors
Educated but never been situated
Nothin’ but reinstated and medicated
Hated by my own kind for a long time
By my family physically and mentally
Even though the lyrics seem a bit gloomy, Caleb’s experience with the Indiana volunteer CASA program ultimately was positive. Court Appointed Special Advocates volunteer on behalf of abused and neglected children whose families are involved with the child welfare system. In 2007, Caleb was paired with Bud Herron of Bartholomew County. Bud served as Caleb’s advocate for six years and developed a strong relationship with the teen. Bud beamed with pride as Caleb spoke and performed in front of the volunteers and CASA supporters.
In 2010, Bud Herron was named CASA Volunteer of the Year. He knows first-hand the important role CASA plays as the voice for vulnerable children. There are nearly 3,500 CASA volunteers in 73 Indiana counties advocating on behalf of 18,699 abused and neglected children.
Indiana House Speaker Brian Bosma (R-Indianapolis) spoke about the importance of advocating for foster children. Senator Tim Lanane (D-Anderson), Representative Peggy Mayfield (R-Martinsville), and Representative Milo Smith (R-Columbus) also offered their support at the event. Judge Viola Taliaferro, of Monroe County, also gave remarks on the difficult decisions facing volunteers, judges and those trying to help children in need.
But the highlight of the assembly was the powerful lines by a child who was once a part of the system. The goal of the March event was to draw attention to the need for more volunteers. Caleb’s attendance reinforced the positive work of volunteers and the important role they play in protecting children.
The event was sponsored by the Indiana Child Advocates Network and the State Office of GAL/CASA, of the Indiana Supreme Court, Division of State Court Administration.