CASA: Be the Change a Child Needs

It's not every day that we get an opportunity to make a meaningful difference in a child's life, but this Fall might just be the season for you. The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) and Foster Care Review Board (FCRB) are extending a warm invitation to our community through their newest campaigns, "Talk About CASA in Your CASA" and "Get on Board with the FCRB."

Unveiled at the Arizona Supreme Court's Dependent Children's Services Division biannual volunteer conference themed "Volunteers Light the Way," these campaigns champion the cause of children in foster care. With an emphasis on the immense power of personal stories and word-of-mouth, the campaigns aim to shed light on the vital roles CASA and FCRB volunteers play in the lives of children.

Imagine a scenario where one person's story can inspire another to make a difference, and in turn, that individual then becomes an inspiration for someone else. This domino effect of goodwill is what the campaigns aspire to achieve. And who better to tell these tales of impact than a volunteer themselves?

Given the staggering number of almost 10,000 children in Arizona's foster care system, the need for dedicated volunteers is pressing. Charles Gray, CASA Program Manager, expressed, "The CASA and FCRB programs are casting a wide net across the state, inviting compassionate individuals to step forward. Regardless of prior experience, the training provided ensures each volunteer is well-equipped to advocate for a child's best interests."

For those wondering about the responsibilities, CASA volunteers spend their time understanding the lives of the children they're appointed to. By dedicating an average of 12-15 hours monthly, they champion the children's rights, ensuring their voices are heard in the juvenile court. Meanwhile, FCRB volunteers join a team of dedicated community members, reviewing foster care cases and making essential recommendations to the courts.

Additionally, the Arizona Supreme Court is offering opportunities for community members to participate in its numerous committees and commissions, addressing various facets of justice, technology, ethics, and more.

If this call resonates with you or someone you know, take the first step. Dive into the world of CASA by visiting AZCASAVolunteer.org or delve into FCRB's mission atazfcrb.org. For more on the Arizona Supreme Court's Committees and Commissions, explore azcourts.gov/committeescommissions.

In the heart of San Tan Valley and beyond, there lies an opportunity to be the beacon of hope for a child. CASA of Arizona and the Foster Care Review Board, operational in all 15 counties, are eager to guide you on this transformative journey. Remember, sometimes the smallest step in the right direction makes the biggest difference.