Altrusa donates Children’s Library to CASA

Literacy is a core focus of Altrusa International, and the local Montrose club chose a new project this autumn to commemorate International Literacy Day. Following research and discussion with CASA’s Director, Carlton Mason, Altrusa’s Literacy Committee became aware of the need for children’s books in their facility. CASA – Court Appointed Special Advocates – is an organization serving abused and neglected children who have been removed from their homes and find themselves in the courts and child welfare system through no fault of their own. CASA helps to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through advocacy and interaction, and the local office serves Montrose, Delta, Gunnison, Hinsdale, Ouray, and San Miguel Counties.

A section of the CASA building was sectioned off for a new children’s library and shelving and signage was added. Altrusa of Montrose purchased $1,150 in new books for children ages 2-14 plus two bean bag chairs for the area. The Literacy committee tagged and sorted books and delivered them, along with the chairs. Altrusa members and CASA staff were on hand for the library dedication.

The books will be read in the library and also be given to children wanting to keep the books.

Since the dedication, Mason has reported the children and their families are enjoying the books and some of the books have been taken home. The book collection was supplemented by Thomas and Stephanie Keller, who donated books from Hastings, and to Freddie Hancock of Montrose Manor who also donated books.