Target demographics: children and youth who have experienced abuse, neglect or another life challenge
Direct beneficiaries per year: Over 700 local children and youth
Geographic areas served: Colorado's 18th Judicial District, including Arapahoe, Douglas, Elbert and Lincoln Counties
Programs: The mission of Advocates for Children CASA is to improve the lives of children and youth who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other life challenges, by connecting them with volunteer advocates and activating community partnerships Advocates for Children CASA recruits, trains and supports community volunteers (Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA volunteers) as they build a relationship with these children. CASA volunteers gather information by visiting these kids in their homes (whether that is a foster home, kinship home, etc), talking with different teachers and school staff, taking them to outings in the community, providing transportation to different visits and appointments, and much more. The CASA volunteer then reports back to the Judge and other professionals making decisions on these children’s futures and provides them with informed recommendations, concerns and observations of what they feel is in this child’s best interest. CASA volunteers work with one child or one sibling group at a time and the bond they form with these children is often lifelong.
Advocates for Children CASA has learned a lot about their community over the last several decades and has recognized the need for wraparound services focused on prevention as well as a continuum of support for youth after they age out of the child welfare system. The organization has several additional programs focused on abuse prevention for children ages 0-3, providing housing support for youth who emancipate from foster care, and two educational advocacy programs focused on tutoring and supporting youth involved in the truancy courts.