We Provide Trained Volunteer
Advocates to Children in Foster Care
THIS MONTH IN HOWARD COUNTY
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ABUSED
216 children will be reported as abused, neglected or abandoned. Many families are given services to prevent foster care
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REMOVED
75 children are in foster care, most of whom have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect
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REUNIFIED
With the support of a CASA volunteer, 38% of children in foster care are reunified with their family
What is a Court Appointed Special Advocate?
Consistent Presence
Children in foster care have experienced abuse and neglect. Once they enter the system, their world suddenly includes court hearings, social workers, attorneys, and often new homes and schools. Amidst it all, a CASA is a consistent, caring presence for a child.
Problem Solver
In the chaos of a large system, a child’s needs can easily fall through the cracks or be overlooked.
From helping a child get glasses to ensuring their records transfer to new schools, a CASA is a creative problem-solver who helps make things happen.
With resources provided by Voices for Children, CASAs work alongside social workers, caregivers, attorneys, and other professionals to make sure a child’s needs are met.
Advocate
CASA volunteers are appointed by magistrates and judges to advocate for children’s best interest. At regular intervals, CASAs report on children’s progress and needs.
A CASA is able to help the judge understand not only the child’s needs, but also the child’s strengths, abilities, interests and wishes. CASA volunteers ensure that children have their voice heard on issues that are important to them, defend and safeguard their rights, and have their views and wishes genuinely considered when decisions are being made about their lives.
This individualized advocacy helps magistrates and judges make the most informed decisions for each child’s future.
YOU CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIFE OF A CHILD TODAY.
Voices For Children provides trained volunteers, Court Appointed Special Advocates, to abused and neglected children in Howard County, who advocate in court to ensure each child a safe and permanent home.
Our volunteers come from all walks of life. They include business executives, teachers, homemakers, attorneys, students and retirees.
Applicants must be at least 21 years of age and have the compassion and energy to help children in need.
We depend largely on individual, community, group and corporate donations to continue our mission.
Are you ready to help? Learn more by clicking the button below.
