In a heartfelt discussion about fostering and adoption, Laura and James Carter always knew they wanted to expand their family beyond biological means. Their desire to make a difference in the lives of children in the foster care system drove them to begin their fostering journey in 2016, shortly after their daughter turned 5. Laura transitioned from a full-time job to being a stay-at-home parent, allowing her the time and energy needed to dedicate to fostering.
Since obtaining their foster care license, the Carters have opened their home to a 4-year-old and a 10-year-old boy. While Laura shares her experiences through her writing, she opts to keep specific details private out of respect for the children they have fostered. However, she is particularly passionate about the crucial role played by Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), also known as Guardian Ad Litems (GALs), in the foster care system.
What is a CASA?
A CASA is a dedicated volunteer appointed by a judge to advocate for the welfare of abused or neglected children. As stated on the CASA website, these advocates are essential in ensuring that children do not get lost in the overwhelmed legal and social services systems or remain in unsuitable group or foster homes. Volunteers undergo specialized training to navigate the complexities of the foster care system and provide support for children who have experienced significant emotional upheaval.
The Commitment of a CASA
The commitment of a CASA is to be a steady presence in a foster child’s life, remaining with them from their entry into the system until they are either reunited with their biological parents or adopted. The duration of this commitment varies depending on the individual child, with some assignments lasting months or even years, while others may be shorter.
The CASA often represents the only consistent adult in a foster child’s life. Laura highlights that children in the foster care system frequently encounter various adults, such as social workers and legal representatives, leading to a sense of instability. “The CASA is the one face that doesn’t change,” Laura explains. “Even if a child moves to a new foster home, they can find comfort in knowing that their CASA will be there soon.” This familiar presence can be pivotal for a frightened and confused child.
The Impact of CASAs
“Becoming a CASA is an incredible opportunity to make a real difference in a child’s life,” Laura emphasizes. These volunteers serve as critical advocates for the needs of foster children, collaborating with social workers, biological parents, and foster families to ensure the child’s best interests are considered. By attending meetings with the child and participating in court hearings, the CASA can provide objective insights to the judge regarding the child’s relationships and needs.
CASAs also play an important role in advocating for social services and helping to coordinate care for foster children. Research shows that children with CASAs perform better academically, as advocates can work closely with school staff to help meet educational goals. “A small commitment of time can lead to monumental changes in a child’s life,” Laura adds.
The Need for More CASAs
Statistics underscore the importance of having qualified CASA volunteers. Children with a CASA or GAL are more likely to be placed in a safe, permanent home and are less likely to experience long-term foster care. They also have a significantly reduced chance of re-entering the system, particularly among children of color.
Currently, fewer than 86,000 CASA and GAL volunteers are available to support over 400,000 children in the U.S. foster care system. This disparity means that judges often have to assign CASAs to the most complex cases, highlighting the urgent need for compassionate individuals to step up as volunteers in their communities. Requirements for becoming a CASA can vary by state and county, but 49 states have a CASA system to assist foster children.
Getting Involved
While many programs aim to support foster children, such as Together We Rise and One Simple Wish, CASA remains one of the most vital for the long-term well-being of these children. “It’s a chance to be directly involved in a child’s journey, which can be rewarding for both the child and the volunteer,” Laura shares.
If you are interested in learning how to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate, you can find more information about local programs here.
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Summary
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) play an essential role in supporting foster children by providing stability, advocacy, and guidance throughout their time in the foster care system. With a significant shortage of volunteers compared to the number of children in need, there is an urgent call for compassionate individuals to step forward and make a difference. The CASA program is crucial for ensuring the welfare and long-term success of foster children.