IN HCR0048

Recognizes the Child Advocates Network's Guardian ad Litem (GAL) and Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs operating in 72 of Indiana's 92 counties.

Commends over 3,000 GAL/CASA volunteers who advocated for 18,613 children in child abuse and neglect cases and 2,568 children in termination of parental rights cases in 2010.

Notes volunteers donate over 500,000 hours annually advocating for children, providing an estimated $25,000,000 in annual savings to the State of Indiana.

Acknowledges GAL/CASA volunteers serve as the sole voice for abused and neglected children in court proceedings and function as positive role models ensuring children receive needed services.

Directs the House Principal Clerk to transmit a copy of the resolution to the State Office of GAL/CASA within the Indiana Supreme Court.