About Casa of kent county
CASA of Kent County: Advocating for Abused and Neglected Children
CASA of Kent County is a non-profit organization that advocates for the best interests of abused and neglected children as they navigate through the family court system. The organization's mission is to provide a voice for these vulnerable children, ensuring that their needs are met and their rights are protected.
The organization was founded in 1989 by a group of concerned citizens who recognized the need for an independent advocate to represent the interests of children in court proceedings. Since then, CASA has grown into a respected and effective advocacy program, serving hundreds of children each year.
CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in court proceedings. These volunteers undergo extensive training to become familiar with the legal system, child welfare issues, and how to effectively advocate on behalf of their assigned child.
Once appointed, CASA volunteers work closely with social workers, attorneys, teachers, therapists, and other professionals involved in the child's case. They gather information about the child's situation from all parties involved and use this information to make recommendations to the judge about what is in the child's best interest.
CASA volunteers also provide emotional support to their assigned child throughout their involvement with them. They serve as a consistent presence in their life during what can be an incredibly difficult time.
The impact that CASA has on these vulnerable children cannot be overstated. Studies have shown that when a CASA volunteer is involved in a case:
- Children are more likely to find safe permanent homes
- Children spend less time in foster care
- Children do better academically
- Children have fewer behavioral problems
In addition to advocating for individual children within the court system, CASA also works at a systemic level to improve policies related to child welfare issues. The organization collaborates with other agencies and organizations working towards similar goals.
CASA relies heavily on the support of volunteers and donors to carry out its mission. Volunteers are always needed, and the organization provides extensive training to ensure that they are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to be effective advocates.
Donations are also critical to the organization's success. CASA is a non-profit organization, and all donations go directly towards supporting their advocacy work on behalf of abused and neglected children.
In conclusion, CASA of Kent County is an essential organization that provides a voice for abused and neglected children within the court system. Their work has a significant impact on these vulnerable children's lives, ensuring that their needs are met, their rights are protected, and they have a chance at finding safe permanent homes. The organization relies heavily on volunteers' support and donations' generosity to continue carrying out its vital mission.