While every CASA volunteer can make a profound difference in any child's life, many children benefit from having someone who shares experiences they can relate to. For boys in foster care who have experienced trauma, loss, or the absence of positive male role models; a consistent, caring male advocate can provide encouragement, stability, and hope during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
The need for CASA volunteers has never been greater.
For children who were in care on March 31, 2026, the median time in foster care was 414 days. That's more than a year of uncertainty, court hearings, placement changes, and major life transitions.
Even more concerning, 17.3% of children had experienced five or more caseworkers during their current time in foster care.
Imagine being a child who has had to explain your story over and over again to new adults entering your life. Every change means rebuilding trust, retelling painful experiences, and wondering whether anyone will stay.
A CASA volunteer changes that.
While professionals may change positions or carry overwhelming caseloads, a CASA volunteer often remains the one consistent adult throughout the child's case. They get to know the child personally, attend court hearings, visit regularly, and advocate solely for what is in that child's best interests.
Some Children Face Even Greater Risks
On March 31, 2026, 19 Nebraska children who were wards of the Department of Health and Human Services were missing from care. Of those, 12 were girls and seven were boys.
Every missing child represents a serious safety concern.
Children who are missing from care face significantly higher risks of human trafficking, sexual exploitation, abuse, and other forms of victimization. They need caring adults who know them, notice when something isn't right, and continue advocating for their safety and well-being.
Why Men Matter
We aren't looking for superheroes.
We're looking for ordinary men who are willing to show up consistently.
A coach. A veteran. A teacher. A farmer. A mechanic. A business owner. A retiree. A college graduate. A dad. An uncle. A neighbor.
Children don't need someone with all the answers.
They need someone who listens.
Someone who keeps showing up.
Someone who believes in them.
When judges appoint a CASA volunteer, they want every child to have the best possible advocate. Increasing the number of male volunteers gives judges more opportunities to assign a volunteer who may better reflect the child's life experiences and provide a positive male presence when one is needed.
One Voice Can Change a Life
The most important reason Nebraska needs more CASA volunteers isn't a statistic.
It's the child waiting.
The child who has been in foster care for more than a year.
The child who has had multiple caseworkers.
The child who simply needs one dependable adult who won't give up on them.
If you've ever wondered whether one person can make a difference, the answer is yes.
Your voice could be the one that helps a child feel seen, heard, and valued.
And for many boys in foster care across Nebraska, that voice could be yours.
