Bob MCClendon helps abused children. He volunteers for Voices for Children as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). It's just the kind of job McClendon needed after retiring from the Peace Corps where he was a Country Director for Russia and The Philippines.

He's been the support for the confused and frightened children assigned to him who have ranged from 3 to 17 years old. He stays with them for as long as it takes-sometimes up to 2 years.

"I've had to learn different skills to do this," McClendon said. Building trust is essential. Talking helps but listening in an active, caring way is most important.

Before being assigned a case by the court, a CASA volunteer must attend intensive initial training and follow up training every year.

The rewards are personally very meaningful. He attended the high school graduation and family celebration dinner of one teenager. And witnessed the reunion of a child with the father the child had never known.

Reflecting on his volunteer experience, McClendon said, "I don't think I would like to spend my senior years without this being part of my life."

For information about volunteering with Voices for Children (CASA) or other agencies, call the Volunteer Connection at 303-444-4904.