CASA (a program of Youth & Family Counseling Services) is a United Way funded organization which provides Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers to research cases involving abused and neglected children of Brazoria County. CASA volunteers speak up for abused children and help guide them into safe environments where they can thrive. Volunteers work toward permanent home placement for children currently in foster care.

What volunteers do:
CASA volunteers gather information about children in foster care who are tangled within the legalities of a court system they don't understand and provide an objective voice to juvenile court judges to help ensure they have all the information needed to make the best decision on behalf of a child. CASA volunteers take 3-4 hours per week to research their case by interviewing parents, relatives, teachers and most importantly, the child. These volunteers then participate in court proceedings where the child's future is decided.

Who can be a CASA volunteer:
If you have an extra few hours a week, are at least 21 years of age, a good communicator able to form objective opinions, and are willing to commit to the initial training involved, then you are urgently needed. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life and no special educational background is required. Volunteers are selected based on their objectivity, competence, and personal commitment.
Once accepted into the program, volunteers attend a series of training sessions where they learn about the special needs of children who have been abused or neglected, social service and juvenile court systems, courtroom procedures, and investigational techniques.

Why be a CASA volunteer:
Be a voice in a Childs life and make a difference. Statistics show that children who are abused often become abusive parents. Help break the cycle of child abuse by reaching a child while they still believe we care. The few hours per week you give now will affect generations down the line. Make a difference today... and tomorrow.