History
In 1977, a Seattle juvenile court judge was concerned that making drastic decisions with insufficient information conceived the idea of citizen volunteers speaking up for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the courtroom. That first CASA program has grown a network of more than 951 CASA and guardian ad litem programs that are recruiting, training and supporting volunteers in 49 states and the District of Columbia.
Mission
To promote and protect the best interests of children who have experienced abuse and neglect by training and supporting volunteers as advocates to serve as their voice in the juvenile court system.
Vision
Every child is entitled to a safe, stable and permanent loving home. We provide screened, trained and supervised volunteers who speak for the needs of these children, one child at a time. CASA works in collaboration with key agencies, a guardian ad litem and community resources to achieve the child's best interests. CASA ensures that dependency children have a voice in court.
Values
Excellence in all endeavors.
Inclusion and respect for all cultures, races, and ethnicities.
Empowering the community through screening, training, supervision, and support of volunteers.
Honorable and respectful involvement in the child welfare system.
Responsible use of resources and funding.
Independent and strong advocacy on behalf of the child's best interests.
A CASA advocate for every child.
