Pros
CASA of Lexington trains and provides Court Appointed Special Advocates to represent abused and neglected children throughout Kentucky, often the state ranked the worst in child abuse and neglect. CASA's management--its board and especially, its director, are fiercely devoted and smart. Its director doggedly pursues grants and other funding opportunities that allow it to accomplish great things with a small budget. This allows them to accomplish their life-saving mission despite consistent threats to funding by legislators, state and federal. Without its advocacy, children already victimized by abuse and neglect are throw into the legal system as the only parties in Family Court cases that have no dedicated advocate. CASA fights for the best interest of the child, ensuring that their voices are heard and that their safety, health and happiness are considered in court decisions. There are few jobs where you can say with confidence that you made a difference. This is one where your impact is immediate and life-changing.
Kontras
Employees work for the love of the job. The pay is predictably bad, but the rewards are immense. The job can be heart-breaking and frustrating. Parents will often perceive you as the enemy, (They're not used to someone fighting for their childs' needs.)