Be the Voice That Changes a Child’s Story: Becoming a CASA Volunteer
“The smallest act of kindness is worth more than the grandest intention.” – Oscar Wilde
Children from our Weld County community enter the abuse and neglect court system through no fault of their own. They face confusing court proceedings, multiple home placements, and an uncertain future. But there’s hope – and it comes in the form of dedicated Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers who step forward to make a genuine difference in these children’s lives.
What Does It Mean to Be a CASA Volunteer?
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” – Margaret Mead
Being a CASA volunteer at Life Stories Child & Family Advocacy means becoming the constant in a child’s life when everything else is changing. As a CASA, you serve as the eyes and ears of the court, but more importantly, you become a trusted supportive adult for a child who needs your voice. You’ll get to know the child personally, understand their unique situation, and ensure their best interests are represented in court and to the professional team surrounding these families.
Each case is different, but your role remains steadfast: to advocate for the child’s wellbeing and help guide them toward a safe, permanent home where they can thrive. You’ll visit the child regularly, communicate with teachers, mental health providers, caregivers, and social workers, and provide detailed reports to the court about the child’s situation and needs.
The Impact: More Than Just Volunteering
“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” – Albert Pike
The impact of a CASA volunteer extends far beyond court appearances. Research shows that children with CASA volunteers:
- Are more likely to find a permanent home
- Receive more services while in the system
- Perform better in school
- Have more positive relationships with adults
- Are half as likely to re-enter the foster care system
But statistics only tell part of the story. The real impact can be seen in the small moments: when a child finally opens up to you about their dreams, when they show improvement in school because someone cared enough to advocate for their educational needs, or when they find their forever home with your help.
Making the Commitment
Being a CASA volunteer requires dedication and commitment. You’ll need to:
- Complete comprehensive training to prepare you for your role
- Commit to staying with a case until it’s closed (an average of 18 months)
- Spend an average of 3 hours a week on your case
- Attend court hearings, other case meetings, and provide written reports
- Maintain regular contact with your assigned child and the program staff
While these commitments are significant, they pale in comparison to the impact you’ll make. You don’t need any special background or education – just a heart for children and a willingness to learn and advocate. And you have help along the way! There are amazing staff members at Life Stories to support you, help with reports, and attend important meetings with you.
The Ripple Effect
When you advocate for a child, you’re not just changing one life – you’re creating a ripple effect that can transform generations. Children who have CASA volunteers could have a chance to break cycles of abuse and neglect, achieve positive results in school, and become successful, contributing members of society.
Take the First Step
“Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not.” – Dr. Seuss
If you’ve ever wanted to make a real difference in your community, becoming a CASA volunteer could be your calling. While the commitment is substantial, the rewards of knowing you’ve helped change a child’s life story are immeasurable.
Ready to learn more? Contact Mattie Harbour at mattie@lifestoriesweld.org, call 970-353-5970, or visit https://www.lifestoriesweld.org/be-a-casa/
Remember: Every child deserves a chance at a great ending. As a CASA volunteer, you can help write that story.
Respectfully submitted by Kodie Rosten, CASA Program Administrator
