Make a real difference in the life of a foster child: Consider becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate

Ashley Flores

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers are everyday people who are appointed by a judge to review cases of abused or neglected children in Pinal County. These volunteers meet with their assigned child on a regular basis to create a trusted presence in their life. CASA volunteers provide regular reports back to the judge in the case with vital information, remaining involved with their child until the court case ends. The juvenile judge counts on the advocate to be their eyes and ears, taking CASA recommendations very seriously.

Did you know:

Children who have a CASA advocate are more likely to receive services and resources

These children are twice as likely to find a safe, permanent home

Children with CASA advocates are half as likely to re-enter the foster care system.

Unfortunately, very few children get the support of a CASA volunteer. With nearly 1,200 foster children in Pinal County, CASA of Pinal County needs more advocates. As a court-appointed special advocate, volunteers receive free, in-depth training by Arizona Supreme Court. Volunteers learn to advocate in court as well as in the community for the needs and rights of children in foster care. Volunteers come from all walks of life and professions and have one thing in common: they care about kids.

The commitment, after 30 hours of training, is between 10-15 hours a month depending on the case. Each advocate is assigned to a CASA Coordinator that mentors them every step of the way. In addition to the initial training, CASA of Pinal County provides hundreds of hours of additional training each year to help their volunteers learn and grow. We have individuals, husband and wife teams, sister teams, etc. This is an excellent opportunity to volunteer individually or with someone who has the same passion for kids.

We invite you to join us to learn more about how you can make a difference in the life of an abused or neglected child in Pinal County. There will be some soul-stirring videos with a brief presentation. Some current advocates who live in SaddleBrooke will also be sharing their experiences. CASA Advocates not only make a huge difference in the lives of foster children but their own lives are changed as a result of the work they do.

The short information session will take place February 20, 2018 at 2:00 p.m. in SaddleBrooke at 37745 South Niblick Drive (South of Ridgeview between Brassie and Spoon). If you would like to attend or would like to request additional information, please feel free to contact Ashley Flores at 520-866-7080 or [email protected]. We hope to see you  on February 20, 2018.