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.
Save The Date: Thursday, October 20
We invite you to a spectacular evening under the stars to support children living in foster care and the life-changing advocacy of our Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers.
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.
2,887 Children
We provided services to nearly 2,900 children who spent time in the San Diego County foster care system from July 1, 2021 –June 30, 2022.
486 Children
After just 7 years of service in Riverside County, we have grown to provide CASAs to more than 480 children in the region each year.
1,310 CASAs
More than 1,300 dedicated community members stepped up to serve as CASA volunteers in San Diego and Riverside Counties.
