All Children have a right to live in a safe and loving home.  But each year, in the United States, millions of children are abused, neglected or abandoned by their parents.  In Sheridan, over 350 complains are investigated each year.  Eventually many of these children end up in court where a judge must decide their future.  Should they be kept in foster care?  Be reunited with their parents?  Be placed in an institution?  Or be adopted?

In addition, many more children end up in court as CHINS (Children In Need of Supervision) or as Juvenile Delinquents.  Again, the judge must decide how to treat these cases.  Are they acting out because of problems at home or school?  Do they need counseling, punishment or both?  Will it help to put them in an institution?

In an overburdened child welfare and court system, close attention to each child's unique circumstances is difficult.

What is a Court Appointed Special Advocate?

CASA Volunteers are trained under the direction and supervision of the CASA Coordinator, as GALs (Guardians Ad Litem) to a juvenile court case by the judge.  As officers of the court, the CASA volunteer assures that the judge has the information needed to make an informed decision and assure that the child is in a safe and permanent home as soon as feasible.

Studies show that children assigned spend less time in court and in foster care, and have a better chance of finding permanent homes and solutions than other children.

• Investigates:  They review official records and interview people who know the child and the situation, including teachers, neighbors, relatives, counselors, and most particularly, the child.
• Advocates:  They prepare reports for the judge presenting the facts of the case to help assure that the best interests of the child are served.
• Facilitates:  They work with the social workers, lawyers and all agencies involved to make sure the child receives needed services.
• Monitors: They maintain close contact with the child and the case to ensure court orders are followed and that the child remains safe.  The CASA remains with the case until the permanent plan is complete.