CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. CASA volunteers speak up and advocate for abused and neglected children in the courtroom and other settings. CASA of Saline County is part of a national network of 955 programs that recruit, train, and support volunteers to represent the interests of these children.
CASA of Saline County is a court-based organization located in Benton, AR. We currently have 25 CASA programs around the state. Arkansas has approximately 58,000 child abuse and maltreatment investigations each year. About 9,500 cases are confirmed to be abuse: physical, sexual, or a combination of both.
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 help 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?
Want to help? Find out about ways you can make a difference and join a network of caring individuals working together for kids. No unique experience or legal skills are required. All you need is common sense and a passion for helping kids, doing what's right, and making a difference in your community.
What 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
What We Don't DO (common misperceptions):
- 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
