While foster care is intended to provide safety, children in care still need stability, connection, and someone who will consistently advocate for their best interests. That is where CASA volunteers make a difference.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are trained volunteers appointed by judges to advocate for children involved in abuse and neglect cases. CASA volunteers spend time getting to know the child and the important people in their life, helping ensure the court has a clear understanding of the child’s needs, progress, and best interests.
Across Nebraska, CASA programs currently serve children in 56 counties. Yet there are still approximately 1,300 children in our state without a CASA volunteer annually.
For a child in foster care, having one consistent, caring adult can be life changing. CASA volunteers help children feel seen, heard, and valued.
Children with a CASA volunteer are more likely to receive needed services, perform better academically, and reach safe, permanent homes. CASA advocacy helps ensure that decisions are made with the child’s best interests at the center.
National Foster Care Month is also an opportunity to recognize the many individuals who support children and families across Nebraska. There are foster parents, relative caregivers, caseworkers, therapists, teachers, attorneys, judges, and CASA volunteers who change lives every day. Supporting children who have experienced abuse or neglect requires compassion, collaboration, and community.
At Nebraska CASA, our goal is simple: a CASA volunteer for every child who needs one.
This month, we invite Nebraskans to learn more about the needs of children in foster care and the ways they can help. Whether through volunteering, donating, advocating, or simply spreading awareness, every effort matters.
Because every child deserves to know someone is standing beside them.
