CASA in urgent need of volunteers to represent area children

There are hundreds of children in the foster care system in Southwest Louisiana. Did you ever wonder who speaks for them?

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), a division of Family & Youth, are trained volunteers who speak in court for the best interests of a child who has been removed from his or her home due to abuse and/or neglect. These volunteers are ordinary people from all walks of life who step up to assist judges in getting to know the child and their specific case. They care, listen and put the child’s interests before all others. CASA volunteers do not provide legal representation, nor do they replace social workers. They serve as the eyes and ears of the court. Ultimately, they speak for the children they represent when they cannot speak for themselves to help them heal and thrive. In 2019, 63 CASA volunteers in Southwest Louisiana devoted more than 1,500 hours to serving children, closing 31 cases.

While the work with the children is one-on-one, CASA volunteers do not work alone. Together, with state organizations, the support of Family & Youth and backing from the national CASA Association, volunteers are a powerful voice for children, helping them reach safe, permanent homes and loving families more quickly.

To become a CASA volunteer, the following is required:

• Must be 21 years old or older
• Participate in an entry interview
• 30 hour training
• Pass a background check

Volunteering for CASA does not require special education or qualifications, just a heart for children in need. For more information on CASA or to sign up for training to become a volunteer, please fill out the form below or contact Family & Youth at 337-436-9533.