 | |
 |
CASA Introduces Mother/Daughter Team
In November, 2006, the CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) of South Central Missouri Program in Phelps County welcomed to its organization a new team of volunteers comprised of Trisha Davault and her daughter, Ashley Davault, of Vichy. They completed their training under the supervision of the Program Director, Judy Waters, and are currently working on several cases together.
Trisha Davault, born in St. Louis, has always had a special place in her heart for abused and neglected children in the court system, having been one herself. Raised in a severely abusive home, Trisha and her siblings were placed in the court system at very young ages and after placement, traded one abusive home for another. The mother of two children, Ashley and Megan, and adored wife of her loving husband, Augie, Trisha spent the past 20 years as a full-time homemaker and home school mom. She also spent 35 years working with youth groups at various churches as well as other ministry opportunities, especially those that involve young people. Among her favorite adventures would be the work she did with Mr. John Moore, private investigator, in teen rescues. Trish and Mr. Moore would travel across the country escorting kids to safe houses at the parent’s request. She has had opportunities in the past to work with the chaplain services at Boy’s and Girl’s Town in St. James and hopes to have more opportunities in the future. Trish is dedicated to helping kids in trouble know there is hope and life can be wonderful.
Ashley Davault, also born in St. Louis, is currently a student at Drury University in Rolla, majoring in both Psychology and English. She is a staff member at Drury University as well. She has spent much of her young life volunteering and working with children and young adults in various ministry opportunities, such as Children’s Church, Bus Ministry, and is an active member of a local Christian drama team, Christian Drama Force. Ashley has always had a passion for working with kids and ministries and hopes to one day have a job that combines them both.
When asked why they are involved with the CASA program, Trisha Davault said, “I think one of the saddest things I’ve seen is for a child to fall through the cracks. Having been one, I know. It doesn’t take a whole lot to make a difference for a child, just a lot of people working together. We are all saddened when we hear of child abuse or neglect and I’ve discovered we can make a difference in the lives of children and families. Sometimes it’s by recommending services that will help the family to stabilize. We have an overloaded court system as it is. It’s easy to complain. As I’ve begun to work in the Phelps County system, I’m impressed with the team players who are trying to make a difference. Being a CASA allows me to work hand in hand with professionals in the field who make recommendations in the best interest of the children. I can’t think of a more effective way to spend my time. It is an honor to be a part of this wonderful organization. If we would all do what we can, we could all be part of the cure. People need to know there is hope. Life may start off rough, but we can have an amazing finish.”
For more information on becoming a volunteer contact the CASA of South Central Missouri office at 573-458-6240 or by cell 573-578-7277.