CANTON — Cherokee County Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children, or CASA, is looking for a few good volunteers to honor for their work with youth in the community.

Starting today, Cherokee CASA for the Children will accept nominations of deserving individuals who have been exemplary in their support and protection of youth in the community. All nominees will be recognized at the Light of Hope event sponsored by the nonprofit in April.

April is National Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month and CASA is planning the event to help raise awareness about child abuse.

Adults who work with children may be the first to recognize the signs of abuse or neglect, according to CASA executive director Deidre Holland.

“Protecting and supporting children requires a community effort, and we know there are many selfless, concerned individuals who are providing a ‘light of hope’ to children,” she said. “Protecting children is everyone’s business. It takes the whole community to support and nurture children to reach their potential.”

There are many individuals in Cherokee County that do this hard work every day without expectation of recognition or reward, Holland said.

“Instinctively, they take the time to offer support through a kind word and extra individual attention,” Holland said. “These actions make a world of difference. They are a shining example of neighbor helping neighbor which is such a strong attribute in Cherokee County.”

Nomination forms can be found on CASA’s website at www.casacherokee.org or by calling the CASA office at (770) 345-3274. Nominations can be submitted by email, fax or regular mail and must be received by 5 p.m. March 26.

Honors will be awarded in the following categories: Religious Organizations (Youth Pastor, Sunday School Teacher); Youth Organizations (Boy/ Girl Scouts, Big Brothers/Big Sisters); School Personnel (Teacher, Counselor, Coach); Athletic Organizations (soccer, basketball, football, cheerleading); Child Welfare Organizations (DFCS, Child Advocacy Center, Foster Parents); Youth Working with Youth (Peer Mentors, Tutors, Youth Leadership); Volunteer Organizations (PTA, Rotary, Service Leagues); and Public Service Organizations (law enforcement, judicial branch).