CASA El Dorado provides support, empowerment and a voice for the abused, neglected at at-risk youth in our community. Your generous support of this event illustrates your belief that all children deserve a chance at a bright future. 

How We Make a Difference

Our Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs), complete extensive background screening and training to work directly with children removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect, as well as juvenile justice involved youth, and families at-risk of having their children removed. CASA’s typically take only one case at a time, allowing ample time to gather thorough information. They build relationships with their “CASA kids and families” by spending time with them, gathering facts about their life so they can report back to the judge; who can then make a more-informed decision as to what services and support are in the best interest the child. These decisions can have life-altering ramifications.

Based on a national audit of CASA programs mandated by Congress and carried out by the Department of Justice, we know that the following outcomes are possible when a CASA advocate is involved in the life of a foster child:

• More services: Foster children who are served by a CASA advocate receive more services to help them recover from their abuse or neglect.
• Less time in foster care: Children who have a CASA in their lives are half as likely to end up in long term foster care.
• Improved recidivism rates: Children who exit the child welfare system with the help of a CASA advocate are 50% less likely to reenter the system.