The Need

Over 5,000 children are subjected to abuse and/or neglect each year in the state of Arkansas. Instead of playing with friends and making happy family memories, these children are attending court hearings, adjusting to new foster homes, and transitioning to new schools. That’s a heavy burden for a child to carry.

Foster care is intended to keep children safe: remove them from imminent danger and nurture them while the state decides if and when it’s safe for the children to return home. This system is well intended but sadly ill-prepared to address the needs (medical, psychological, educational, emotional) of the individual children it serves. Juggling an average of 25 foster care cases at a time, Department of Human Services workers could not possibly be the extensive support system these children need.

"As a CASA I helped to place my first child into a dramatically better situation than he had previously known. That was a wonderful feeling that made all of my time and effort feel worthwhile. To see a child either adopted into a better situation or reunited with a parent who has been able to get their life together is a feeling that you will never ever forget."

– CASA Volunteer Jeff Larson

Enter a Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer. CASA volunteers are trained and supported to fight for the best interests of children in foster care. They closely monitor their children’s cases and work to ensure a child’s permanent home will be one of hope, stability, and love.

Research shows it only takes one caring adult to change the course of a young person’s life. Through one-on-one guidance, support, and advocacy, CASA volunteers ensure the children on their case have access to health, education, and permanency planning services that will improve their quality of life, break the cycle of abuse and neglect, provide strong adult relationships, and prepare them for brighter futures than their pasts would predict.

Brighter Futures and Stronger Communities

Children who have experienced abuse or neglect fare better with a CASA/GAL volunteer by their side. Studies have shown:

THEY ARE

more likely

to find a safe, permanent home

THEY ARE

more likely

to succeed in school

THEY ARE

half as likely

to re-enter the foster care system

Want to learn more?

The role of a CASA volunteer
Requirements & Training
See our frequently asked questions