What is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)?
Consistent Presence
Children in foster care have experienced abuse and neglect. Once they enter the dependency system, their world suddenly includes court hearings, social workers, attorneys, and often new homes and schools. Amidst it all, a CASA is the one consistent, caring presence for a child.
Problem-Solver
From helping a child get glasses to ensuring their records transfer to new schools, a CASA is an expert problem-solver who makes things happen. With resources provided by Voices for Children, CASAs work alongside social workers, caregivers, attorneys, and other professionals to make sure nothing falls through the cracks.
Advocate
At regular intervals, CASAs report on children’s progress and needs. A CASA is able to help the judge understand not only the child’s needs, but also what they like to do, what their favorite color is, or why they are struggling in school. This individualized advocacy helps judges make the most informed decisions for each child’s future.
You're Invited to Starry Starry Night
Starry Starry Night is our signature event, bringing together the community to support San Diego’s most vulnerable children. The 2021 gala will be a spectacular evening under the stars at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, San Diego’s extraordinary new bayside performance venue, where we will honor, celebrate, and reflect on our 40th year of service in San Diego County.
This year, an estimated 3,500 children like Suamhirs and Austin will spend time in foster care in San Diego County and 4,000 will spend time in foster care in Riverside County. These children need you to speak up for them.
3,152 Children
We provided services to more than 3,150 children who spent time in the San Diego County foster care system from July 1, 2020 –June 30, 2021.
467 Children
After just 6 years of service in Riverside County, we have grown to provide CASAs to more than 450 children in the region each year.
1,400 CASAs
Nearly 1,400 dedicated community members stepped up to serve as CASA volunteers in San Diego and Riverside Counties.
