WHO WE ARE
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. CASA volunteers speak up and advocate for abused and neglected children in the courtroom and other settings.
HOW WE HELP
CASA is integral to making sure the voices of all children are heard. There is no yellow brick road for children in abusive and neglected environments to find a way out. A CASA is there to listen, help, and, most importantly, speak up. Children in these situations have a lot to say, but they need someone to help them have their voices heard, protect them from getting lost in the system, and ensure that their needs are met - an advocate. CASA helps fulfill one of society's most critical missions, to make sure each child in our community has access to a safe environment.
These children are all around us, but without CASA, they are often left in the shadows, confused, and scared in a complicated and unpredictable system, even adults! He may be the lonely child at the bus stop on your way to work or the quiet girl in your grandson's classroom. CASA advocates may be the only stable person in this child's life. Imagine being removed from your family as a child. Would you need a dependable ally? Would you want an advocate?
WE DO:
- CASA advocates speak up for abused and neglected kids
- We help to ensure children in foster care have a voice
- We collaborate with other child-service agencies
WE DO NOT:
- CASA is NOT part of DCFS/DHS or any other state or government service agency
- CASA does NOT remove children from their homes nor make decisions on their placements.
- CASA volunteers are NOT foster parents nor caregivers - they ARE advocates
- CASA does NOT provide services for children (We DO help to ensure that children get the services they need)!
- CASA advocates are NOT mentors - we actively ensure children don't get lost in "the system."
- CASA does NOT provide shelter or housing for children
