CASA Mission Statement

The mission of CASA of the Ouachita Region is to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the court system. In the belief that every child is entitled to a safe, permanent home, we recruit, train, and supervise volunteers to serve as the child’s advocate in court.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) speak up for the best interests of children involved in the foster care system. We recruit and train dedicated community volunteers who serve as the voice of children in court, ensuring their needs are heard and prioritized.

CASA Volunteers complete a 30-hour pre-service training and participate in 12 hours of continuing education each year. Under the guidance of our professional staff, each volunteer is assigned to one case—either a single child or a sibling group—from the moment they enter the child welfare system until their case is resolved.

Throughout the case, CASA Volunteers meet regularly with the child and connect with teachers, doctors, foster families, biological families, and others involved in the child’s life. They assess the child’s emotional, physical, medical, and educational needs, and compile their findings in written reports presented to the judge at every court hearing.

Founded by a judge and now a national movement with nearly 1,000 programs across the country, CASA is recognized as one of the most effective public–private partnerships supporting the safety, stability, and well-being of children in foster care.