Court Appointed Special Advocates

All children deserve to live in a safe and permanent home. East-Central CASA provides child advocacy services through well-trained community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children. When a CASA volunteer is court-appointed to a case, he or she is responsible for gathering information, and coordinating as many elements as possible, in order to secure for each child a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible. CASA volunteers visit children regularly, review records, interview parents and relatives, consult with teachers, neighbors and foster care providers, and work closely with community service providers. They advocate for the children and families to gain access to needed support and services. They appear in court to advocate on behalf of the child’s needs and best interests. CASA volunteers are a powerful presence that reminds everyone involved – from parents and caseworkers to lawyers and judges – that, at the heart of each case, is a child who deserves a safe and loving place to call home.