CASA for Children is calling on community members to volunteer as Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA volunteers, to support children living in foster care. With more kids entering the foster care system, there is a growing need for additional volunteers who can stand up for these vulnerable children in court and ensure their best interests are being met.

CASA volunteers are a vital part of the child’s life. They help to ensure that the child receives the services and support they need during an often chaotic time. Their dedication can be lifechanging, as seen in Emma’s story, a child whose journey through foster care was transformed by her CASA advocate.

Emma was born into the Child Welfare System, testing positive for methamphetamines and cannabis. After enduring withdrawal symptoms, she was placed in a loving foster home while her mother began a challenging journey of substance abuse treatment. With minimal progress and her father’s whereabouts unknown, the court faced the difficult decision of whether to terminate parental rights. At this crucial moment, CASA volunteer Debra was appointed, providing muchneeded consistency for Emma and her foster family despite numerous changes in caseworkers.

Debra’s careful investigation confirmed the mother’s lack of progress, leading to the selfless decision to relinquish her parental rights. Emma’s father was located but had also failed to meet requirements or visit Emma. Debra’s reports to the court were vital, and after 2.5 years in foster care, Emma was joyfully adopted by the only family she had ever known. At the adoption hearing, Emma proudly celebrated with Debra, whom her foster mother described as “a blessing to our family.”

Becoming a CASA volunteer is a unique way to make a lasting impact in a child’s life. Volunteers receive training and ongoing support. No previous training or experience is required -just a heart for children and a willingness and dedication to help.

Volunteers must be:

• 21 years of age or older

• Willing to commit to approximately 10-15 hours per month

• Willing to submit to a criminal background and child welfare screening • Passionate about making a difference in the life of a child To learn more, visit www.casaok.org or contact Jenny Crosby at 918-685-1501 or jenny@casaok.org.