The Invisible Wounds of Foster Care
When a child enters the foster care system, their world changes overnight. They may lose their home, their school, and the people they trust. Beneath the surface, many children carry deep emotional scars—anxiety, grief, guilt, or fear that can last long after physical safety is restored.
This is where CASA volunteers make a profound difference. By showing up consistently, listening without judgment, and advocating for services that meet each child’s emotional as well as physical needs, CASA volunteers help children begin to heal.
Advocacy Beyond the Courtroom
CASA advocacy is rooted in compassion and understanding. Volunteers don’t just gather information—they see the whole child. They speak up for mental health supports like therapy, counseling, and trauma-informed care. They remind the system that progress isn’t just measured in court dates or case closures—it’s measured in a child’s sense of safety, stability, and self-worth.
A CASA’s presence tells a child, “You matter. Your feelings matter. You are not alone.”
Supporting Mental Health for All
Mental health also matters for the adults who surround these children— parents, caseworkers, and CASA volunteers themselves. The work is emotionally demanding, and caring for others requires caring for ourselves. Nebraska CASA encourages everyone in our network to practice self-care, connect with peers, and seek support when the weight of advocacy feels heavy.
A Call to Compassion
This World Mental Health Day, let’s renew our commitment to nurturing emotional well-being for every child and every advocate. Together, we can create a Nebraska where every child has not only a safe home but also a hopeful heart.
Because healing begins when someone listens—and believes in you.
