Abused and neglected children often slip through the cracks of the overburdened social welfare system. Trained CASA volunteers can step in to make a difference.
CASA is the only volunteer organization that empowers everyday citizens as appointed members of the court. (Locally, CASA volunteers serve as the child’s guardian ad litem, or GAL). Appointed by judges, CASA volunteers typically handle just one or two cases at a time and commit to staying on that case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. CASA volunteers provide a constant, stable, person for the child to connect to in a situation where frequent change is often the norm.
Over the years, numerous national studies have concluded the following:
- CASA advocates spend most of their volunteer time with the child; significantly more than paid GALs.
- When a CASA volunteer is assigned, a higher number of services are ordered for children and their families.
- CASA volunteers are far more likely than paid attorneys to file written reports with the court.
- Children with CASA volunteers are more likely to be reunified with their families or to be adopted then languish in the system.
For information on how to become involved call: (406) 755-7208, or Email: