What Is CASA?

CASA is a not-for-profit organization serving the community.  CASA Volunteers are Court Appointed Special Advocates appointed by a Judge to speak on behalf of children who come under the jurisdiction of the court because of child abuse or neglect.

All children have a right to a safe home with loving people to care for them. However, each year in Michigan, thousands of children are abused, neglected, or abandoned by their families.  Over 15,000 children are removed from their homes and placed in foster care, relative care, or an institution.  When a neglect petition is filed by the Department of Human Service (DHS), a Judge decides what happens next.  A Judge may determine the goal is reunification of the family or termination of parental rights and adoption.

CASA volunteers ensure that the child’s voice is heard when these decisions are being made.