Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) of Rock County
"Safety and security don't just happen; they are the result of collective consensus and public investment. We owe our children, the most vulnerable citizens in our society, a life free of violence and fear." -Nelson Mandela
The goal of a CASA program is to promote the best interests of abused and neglected children within the juvenile court system. Specially trained volunteers appointed by the judge provide the court with information and recommendations specific to life-defining decisions that affect the child, such as when to return home versus staying in foster care. The volunteer meets with the child weekly and has regular contact with the parents, foster parents, teachers, social workers, school officials and health care providers. A status report is then submitted to the judge on a bi-monthly basis so that there is additional oversight of the child's situation.
The program is successful in part because the volunteers are able to provide focused case management on one child or sibling group. Due to the extensive caseloads the county social workers have they are unable to provide the same intensity of interactions with the children.
Nationally, the CASA program has been in existence since 1976. Begun in Washington state, the program has expanded dramatically as there are now nearly 1000 programs nationwide. CASA of Rock County has been in existence since July 2005. The program has 2 part-time staff persons who supervise approximately 30 volunteers.
If you are interested in learning more about the CASA of Rock County please contact our office at or . Our website is located at www.cccsbeloit.org.
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