Having an impact in 49 US states, as well as the District of Columbia, the Nation Court Appointed Special Advocates Association works towards ensuring that every child who has experienced child abuse or neglect can feel safe, rely on an assigned advocate, have a permanent home, and have the opportunity to prosper.
The National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association thrives on the values of adaptability, collaboration, integrity, respect, quality, service, and stewardship. This association pairs volunteers, over the age of 21, with children victims of child abuse. CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children of child abuse. These volunteers learn all about the child’s family and life, they engage in regular visits with the child, they speak on behalf of the child in the court of law and recommend permanent placements and services, as well as monitor the child’s legal situation until the child is released by the court. These volunteers also collaborate with other professionals who work with such as social workers, teachers, etc., and they report any information they have obtained.
In addition to becoming a child advocate, one can volunteer with the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association to become an advocate for legislation. CASA’s most recent congressional movement is asking Congress to support non-profit organizations in the future COVID-19 packages as CASA volunteers are currently helping 271,800 children and are in need of more support during this pandemic. By becoming an advocate for legislation, one can sign petitions and letters to Congress requesting support.