By Lauren Miller
& Gari Voss
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) plays a vital role in supporting children involved in the child welfare and family court systems because of abuse or neglect. CASA of the Harbor, a program under the auspice of Safe Harbor Children’s Advocacy Center, provides trained volunteers who serve as the voice of vulnerable children, ensuring that their needs and best interests are represented in court.
Currently, CASA of the Harbor has 11 dedicated volunteers advocating for 8 children. Each volunteer is appointed by a judge and assigned to a child or sibling group, offering consistent support, guidance, and advocacy throughout their time in the system. Over the years, they have appreciated the work of the Honorable Michael Buck who recently retired.
At the annual State of Michigan CASA Conference on November 4, 2024, in Bay City, MI, Allegan Probate Judge Michael L. Buck was announced as the recipient of the Award of Excellence, Jurist of the Year for 2024. Several local CASA representatives were in attendance, but Judge Buck was unable to attend. The formal nomination was read at the conference by Lauren Miller, CASA Manager of Allegan CASA. The award was brought back to Allegan and presented to Judge Buck at the local CASA volunteer meeting on December 10, 2024, at the Safe Harbor Offices. 8 CASA volunteers attended the local ceremony, including Carolyn Frank, Director of Operations for Michigan CASA.
Although disappointed to miss the State Conference, Judge Buck expressed how satisfying it is to receive the award with so many Allegan CASA volunteers present.
“It is the Court who should be giving the awards to these volunteers, who give so much of themselves to help kids whose families are involved in court proceedings,” Judge Buck stated. “You helped me do a better job to get better results for kids. It is I who should be thanking you!”
Judge Buck previously was named Judge of the Year by Michigan CASA in 2006. He retired, effective January 1, 2025, at which time he was replaced by Judge Jolene Clearwater.
CASA volunteers undergo specialized training to understand the complexities of the child welfare system and provide informed recommendations to the court regarding a child’s best interests. The program is seeking additional volunteers to expand its reach and serve more children in need. Applicants must be at least 21 years of age, have a valid driver’s license, and must have no criminal history or child abuse and/or neglect history.
For more information about CASA of the Harbor or to learn how to become a volunteer, please visit safeharborcac.org/casa or contact Lauren, our CASA Manager at lmiller@safeharborcac.org
