Just try to imagine what it would be like to lose your parents...not because of something you did, but because they can’t - or won’t - take care of you. Now, into your life come dozens of strangers: police, social workers, foster parents, judges, and lawyers, and more.

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) Program provides an innovative, cost-effective solution to these urgent crises. CASA recruits and trains volunteers from everyday walks of life for children who might otherwise become lost in our over-burdened Juvenile court system. 

• In the 14th Judicial District over 150 children are placed in foster care because they cannot safely live with their families. CASA connects these children with volunteer advocates who are assigned to one or two cases at a time, providing a dedicated focus on the needs of one child or a sibling group.
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• CASA volunteers gather information about the children by talking with teachers, doctors, attorneys, therapists and anyone else involved in the children’s life. They also get to know the children by spending time with them and building a trusting relationship. Volunteer advocates then make recommendations to the court based on what they believe is best for the children on their case, helping the judge make informed decisions about each child’s future.
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• The scheduling of volunteer activities is flexible. CASA volunteers commit to spending 10-15 hours per month, on one case, for at least one year. With the exception of approximately eight scheduled meetings or hearings per year, the volunteer determines how and when to spend their volunteer time. In addition, each volunteer is paired with a staff professional for support and guidance.

Our Mission: 

“CASA provides community trained volunteers,

who become heroes in the lives of abused and

neglected children. Volunteers advocate by giving

hope and a voice to these children who otherwise

stand alone while in the foster care system.”