For children involved in the child welfare system, staying with someone they already know can provide an important sense of stability during an uncertain time. Kinship care can help children remain connected to family, community, culture, school and familiar routines while receiving the safety and support they need.
Kinship caregivers often take on their role with little notice. A grandparent may suddenly become a full-time parent again. An aunt, uncle, sibling or close family friend may rearrange work schedules, housing and family responsibilities almost overnight.
Along with the everyday responsibilities of caring for a child, kinship caregivers may also find themselves navigating school meetings, medical appointments, court hearings and the child welfare system.
Their willingness to say “yes” can make an enormous difference in a child’s life.
At Nebraska CASA, we see every day how important strong, consistent relationships are for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers are trained community members appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of children involved in the child welfare system. CASA volunteers get to know the child and the important people in their life, including relatives and kinship caregivers, and help ensure the court has information about the child’s needs, circumstances and connections.
Kinship caregivers and CASA volunteers have different roles, but both can provide something children deeply need: consistency, connection and a commitment to their well-being.
During Kinship Care Month, Nebraska CASA recognizes the Nebraskans who open their homes, adjust their lives and step forward for children in their families and communities.
To every grandparent, relative and trusted adult providing kinship care: thank you for being there when a child needs you most.
There are also many children in Nebraska’s child welfare system who need another caring adult in their corner. Becoming a CASA volunteer is one way to provide a consistent voice and steady presence for a child while helping ensure their needs are heard in court.
Learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer or sign up now at nebraskacasa.org/volunteer.
