CASA of Sonoma County (Court Appointed Special Advocates of Sonoma County)

I have been working with a disabled foster child. She has mental challenges. To be able to insure that a foster child does not get lost in the system, which can be very large and impersonal is such a wonderful way to make an impact on a child's life.

I volunteer as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in Sonoma County. It is a very well-organized and run non-profit. In order to volunteer for their organization and start helping a child, I had to go through an extensive 30 hour training. CASA provides knowledgeable, caring professionals whom I can turn to for advice. Now I am able to make an important difference in the life of a child who really needs it. This young child has faced trauma and neglect. Their life is much better since they were removed from that situation, but two years later they are still unable to feel settled and happy because their life is controlled by a legal system that doesn't honor their desires as the top priority. As a CASA, I get to befriend the child and help alleviate their suffering, even though many factors are causing them grief. It is a privilege to help a young person in need and I am grateful that CASA of Sonoma County is making this possible. The organization deserves support and gratitude from the community!

Provides a very important service to our community. Proven leader ship to support all of the CASA volunteers.

I’m proud to talk about Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers any chance I get! They advocate on behalf of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Their advocacy helps ensure that children are safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive.

The work CASA does is so very important for children, families and the community, and it holds a special corner in my heart because I had a CASA worker of my own as a teen going through the foster care system. I always felt that my CASA had my best interest in mind and as a teen, she was someone I could look up to. In a system that can feel too big and too easy to get lost in, I felt that I had someone in my corner, who could speak up for me when it mattered most.

There are many stories... complex stories, about foster care, but the point is this; kids and teens in foster care need you, they need CASA.

While not everyone is able to be a foster parent, we can find ways to help. If it speaks to you, I encourage you to learn about CASA and support them by donating and/or getting certified as a CASA volunteer to be the person that stands by kids and teens as they navigate through foster care.

Thank you.

I attended the very informative and professionally taught training to become a CASA, but have been unable to start at this time. I gained a new appreciation for this much needed organization and felt blessed to be in the midst of these awesome new volunteers.

I have known Millie Gilson for over 20 years. What she has done for the youth in Sonoma county Foster Care has been exceptional! I have been a CASA for over 20 years involved in both SF and Sonoma County. Sonoma County CASA deserves much more recognition than it has received. In this time of COVID, her task has become even more challenging. The volunteers are officers of the court. Millie has done an incredible job of recruiting and training and supporting the CASA volunteers with their cases. Thank you in advance for considering Sonoma CASA as a top rated Nonprofit. Pamella Olson

CASA is an amazing organization!! As a volunteer, I have seen firsthand the amazing work performed by this organization. From top to bottom, this is an outstanding and committed organization, delivering professional and caring support to our Foster youths. I am proud and honored to be a part of something so wonderful!

Throughout my years as a foster child, things could get pretty lonely, sad, and scary. Thanks to the CASA program, I was able to build and maintain a constant relationship with someone who wasn't a social worker, group home staff, or "official" feeling. It really helped me to have a person who not only valued me and our time together, but also to advocate for me and my best interests. It is great to have someone by your side in a more fun, casual capacity that doesn't feel like a sterile, transactional relationship.

Trustworthy, transparent and accountable organization. We have been funding CASA for years and do not plan to ever stop. It is a wise investment and a way to support the court system as well as the hundred of abused and neglected children that could use a voice.

Being a CASA means developing a close relationship with a child or youth in foster care. Often you are the only person whose ONLY agenda is to help this person thrive. You spend time, you listen, you provide thoughtful feedback, you help to link your child with important community resources. Sometimes you just take a walk or have a cup of tea. These are children and youth who really need an advocate. It’s not an easy job.
And you are responsible for reporting to the judge every six months on progress, issues, needs. (And the judge does really read your report.) If you’re looking for a very meaningful volunteer experience, check out CASA.

CASA’s are amazingly dedicated caring people! EVERY child needs to know they matter, and CASA’s are there for the children when they need the support the most.

Such a wonderful agency in support of our Foster youth! I’m proud to be part of their mission. The staff of volunteers are available to assist in your volunteer tasks. They are amazing at getting things for the kids. My most recent example was getting a Chromebook for a youth in high school! Additionally, other school supplies were made available such as backpacks, filled with paper, writing utensils, etc. I am proud to be part of this amazing agency!!!

What a special way to make a difference in the lives of our local youth who are in families that are struggling. I have volunteered with three sisters for 12 years as they transitioned back into their mothers home. They still need support and guidance as they grow into young adults with their learning disabilities and educational programs. It has been such a pleasure to work with this family and become one of their "family friends" as the years continue. The CASA program is supportive and there for you as you navigate the court system and become the childrens advocate. Wonderful experience!!

3 of my grandchildren have been adopted through the foster adopt program and my daughter has fostered 3 more. The CASA volunteers are a wonderful resource, looking out for the child's best interests throughout the foster system and are very much appreciated by our family! Thank you!

CASA holds a special place in my heart and is one of my charity’s preferred when writing a check. The organization is truly imperative for the child, who has been neglected and removed by no fault of their own. In this world today it’s difficult finding another human to have one’s back! Many years ago I served on the Board in Sonoma Co. and am reminded how important this non profit is to our greater community. I admire all the CASA volunteers for their steadfast commitment !

CASA is absolutely the most accountable and transparent organization I have ever interacted with. Their focused mission has been consistent over the years and the work with foster youth very rewarding.
Please consider getting involved somehow and be part of the supportive team of CASA volunteers that have been the arm of the Juvenile Court here in Sonoma County for over 20 years.

Great team and great management!
Love working with CASA of Sonoma County.

As a social worker, I work with CASA on a frequent basis. They are so dedicated to the youth they serve and make my job so much easier! I love CASA.

I was on the founding board of CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Sonoma County. I served the limit of six years and watched it grow and become a vital aspect of the juvenile dependency court.

CASA is a program matching advocates with children who have been removed from the home for abuse or neglect and placed in the juvenile dependency court system. The advocate spends 2-4 hours per week with the child providing mentorship as well as advocating for the child's interests in court.

As with any new program, CASA was met with skepticism by social workers and attorneys. It is now a robust program lauded by those same skeptics. One adult can make an enormous difference in a child's life, particularly when that child has been victimized by a parent's shortcomings, illnesses and addictions. It makes the difference between that child overcoming their abuse or growing up to be an addict/abuser themselves.

These hurt children also run the risk of becoming youthful offenders and ending up in the juvenile justice system.

The advocates commit to a very high level of volunteerism. The screening and training is intensive. Their commitment to a child is for a minimum of one year and often exceeds two years.

There are few immediate rewards for an advocate. They serve knowing that they may never see the fruits of their labor, may never be thanked or outwardly appreciated by the child they are serving. But they have faith that the time with their child makes a difference.

CASA of Sonoma County has been very fortunate to have Millie Gilson as the executive director for all of its years. I've never met a more passionate and dedicated child advocate. She is tireless in all aspects of the organization -- from program development, advocate training, board development, fundraising, ongoing training.

CASA of Sonoma County is most deserving of continued support from generous donors.

Although I just began my journey as a CASA, I can already tell it is one of the best decisions I have made in my college career. I currently serve as an office intern and as a CASA. I just took on my case and I am so excited to see what I will learn from my CASA kid throughout this journey. I am learning a lot about the foster system and important sociological/psychological concepts by being an office intern and CASA. This program is incredibly life-changing, both for volunteers and CASA kids!

Very impressed with my experience with this organization. They are well organized and always available to help out where needed. The experience working with children in need is rewarding, fulfilling, and invaluable.

This organization is a lifesaver for kids in the foster care system.

From the comprehensive training to the warm support of the volunteer supervisors, the programs at CASA of Sonoma County deliver at every turn. Of course, the work with youth is the heart of the program, and those hours have added immeasurably to my life. I have learned from the network of specialists surrounding the foster youth, and I have felt the honor of being among them as we struggle to provide what the foster youth need to succeed. It is hard work, at times frustrating, and it requires the best of the volunteers. What other volunteer opportunity can make such a claim?

I went through the CASA training in January, 2018 - which was very thorough. I felt prepared to meet my CASA child. My 9 year old boy and I just celebrated our six month anniversary and have gotten together each week to talk, hang out, eat dinner, play at places like Epicenter, Rebounderz, Driven, Scandia, go to movies, etc... He is a wonderful boy who has loving grandparents taking care of him .

I became a CASA volunteer to positively enrich a child's life through support and encouragement and I feel like we are good for each other. We both look forward to our evenings together and I know that he feels he can talk to me about anything - without judgment.

The CASA Volunteer Supervisors are always available to answer my questions and give me advice.

I highly recommend becoming a CASA and a few of my co-workers and friends are pursuing this opportunity because I shared my experience.

Kathy

I have been a volunteer with CASA of Sonoma County for about a year and a half. In that time I have had the privilege of assisting three different families during their experiences with the child welfare system. Having the opportunity to interact with foster youth, biological parents, foster parents, social workers, educators, therapists, attorneys and many other professionals is an interesting, challenging and eye-opening experience. As a CASA, I work always to help advocate for what is in the best interest of the child, navigating a complex and flawed system along the way. What I have consistently found throughout this process is that ALL people are flawed and that at their core almost ALL people are good.

Working as a CASA requires that I put my heart on the line, choosing to do what I can to ease the burden of the children I work with. Often that means adopting their struggles and pain; helping them to feel that they have someone they can share with, rely on, and trust. There are days that I feel sad or frustrated, but then there are days when I feel so proud and excited about the progress one of my kids or their families are making. My eyes have been opened to the struggles faced in our community and to the many biases that exist.

CASA of Sonoma County provides a great support system to ensure you have guidance and direction throughout your experience. If you think that you have the heart and the skills to take on caring about a child, putting their best interest ahead of your own ideas, and making the time in your life to try to make a difference in their future then you might make an amazing child advocate. Reach out to CASA today to find out more!

I have been a donor to CASA for many years. Their outstanding service for supporting foster children is unmatched. In the near future I plan to become a CASA to a special child in the community. Until then CASA is my charity of choice to donate to financially.

I took the training to be a CASA volunteer shortly after I retired and I have been an advocate for my youth for over 4 years. As typical for a child in foster care my youth was moved several times and had changes in his social worker and schools. For the past 4 years I have been steady presence in his life visiting and going on outings and most importantly, listening. I have been able to work with his teachers and care takers to be certain he is getting all that is available to ensure happy and healthy development. The CASA organization is literally available 24/7, able to provide counseling and services to enrich both the life of my youth and certainly mine.

I have been with this agency since it's inception almost twenty one years ago. I have had the honor to advocate for seven young women as a CASA volunteer. I was able connect with these girls on a personal and professional level. In each case they were able to give so much value and texture to my life by allowing me to see that there are life experiences that are different from mine but that adversity can and will be overcome. I have come to value each and every human being and seeing potential in them. I also served in the office as a Training Coordinator for two years. In that capacity I have come to value and appreciate the players in the Social Service system in this county. There is a dedication to these children and a compassion that permeates from the professionals in their field from Social Workers to Supervisors of Human Services to the judges whose burden is such that I am honored to be able to report to them to make their decisions more informed and clear. If you want to make a difference in your life and the life of the future generations you will look into this nonprofit.

As a CPS social worker I have worked with families in which one or more of the children had a CASA volunteer. In every case, CASA matched the child with a CASA that would be a goof fit for the family. For example, in a family with Spanish-speaking parents and bilingual children, CASA assigned a bilingual CASA volunteer who could also communicate with the parents. In another case, the boy who loved sports was assigned a CASA that also loved sports. In each case the CASAs were caring and responsible and communicated their observations of the child and family with both the social worker and the court. Some CASAs continue working with the child through the end of the case, which for some children can be years. One CASA helped the family find needed housing. The children we serve very much need stable, caring and responsible adult role models. CASAs are an essential part of the Child Welfare system!

When I give my time, I like it to matter; I like to be clear about my duties, responsibilities, and purpose. CASA fulfills these requirements completely. The training is thorough and thoughtful, with presentations from all of the important organizations who care about and provide services for foster youth. From the training, the new CASA has an inside view of a system that has a most important purpose - care for abused and neglected children - and a sense of what the volunteer can do to help.

I recommend CASA to all my colleagues in the schools who contemplate retirement and want to continue to work with kids. The "work" is meaningful, simple, and often even fun.

I am a social worker with the Sonoma County Family, Youth and Children Division of the Human Services Department. I have worked with many families over the years in which one or more of the children had a CASA volunteer. I have also attending many Team Decision Making Meetings in which a CASA was present as a child advocate. I have been so impressed with the kindness, generosity and professionalism of the CASA volunteers. Oftentimes the families with which we work are facing serious challenges such as poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, medical health problems, and a history of trauma for both parents and children. Sometimes children are removed from their parents' care and the parents fail to reunify with their children and the children are cared for by relatives or foster parents. In some cases they go on to be adopted. In these long term cases the CASA stays in the child's life, continues to advocate for the child, spend time with the child, and report to the child welfare court how the child is doing. The CASA volunteer is a very important member of the team of professionals who are supporting the child. I know of one CASA (years ago) that helped a 13 year old girl raise money for her 8th grade trip to Washington DC. This was a girl who had never been on a plane and may not have every travelled outside of Sonoma County. This same CASA spent time with her each week her out to eat and to fun activities that her family had not been able to provide for her. This same CASA helped the family find a beautiful home to rent in a much safer neighborhood than where they had been living. CSA of Sonoma County and the CASA volunteers are providing an amazing service to high risk children and indirectly to their families as well. I am so grateful for all the work they do!

I've been a CASA volunteer for 13 years. I stay involved because I know how important this service is to abused, abandoned, and neglected kids that, through no fault of their own, find themselves separated from their families. CASA is a well-run, highly efficient organization that very effectively gives these kids hope and chances for success to which they otherwise would not have access.

I am glad I was a CASA volunteer. The training for the volunteers was excellent and the support good. I encountered many children who had little consistency in their homes and so I tried to provide a bit of consistency by meeting weekly and doing different fun and creative activities with my child.Bouncing around on a ship in the ocean hoping to see whales and feeling sea sick was most memorable! Perhaps the the hardest thing for me was to not know if the time spent with my child was really helping the child to navigate through life in a better way. I guess one may never know, but one just hopes so!

Being a CASA not only enriches the life of a foster youth, it enriches the life of the CASA.

As a CASA, you have something wonderful to offer the youth... your presence and your acceptance of him or her "as is." You are not getting paid to be there; you want to be there.

I had the privilege of "being there" for a young teen, who is now a prospering young adult. It wasn't always easy; there were many bumps in the road. Yet today, she tells me that my presence in her life really made a difference. She says, "You were the only one who visited me in Juvenile Hall. I always knew that you cared about me. You were MY CASA. You never put me down. You held me in your heart and I will always hold you in mine."

CASA of Sonoma County has a wonderful support staff, excellent training and an extraordinary commitment to helping the most vulnerable members of our community, our "kids"!

Sonoma CASA is amazing organization that focuses on supporting and encouraging foster youth as they maneuver the foster care system. The CASA staff are knowledgeable about the court and foster care system and provide continuous support to the volunteers.

CASA of Sonoma Co. is a key component of the Juvenile Court System of our county. The program provides a consistent adult connection for foster children. This consistent adult is a volunteer who donates his/her time to advocate for these foster kids in the courtroom, classroom and community...making a difference!

I have been involved with CASA as a volunteer for over 20 years . I have had many rewarding relationships with children, families, community workers, CASA staff and volunteers. I feel that CASA provides a voice for many children who otherwise would not have trained and caring advocates outside of their families and government professionals. When we help children, we help better the future for all of our family and the world. CASA has many dedicated workers and volunteers who believe in helping as many children in need as we possibly can. CASA warms my soul.

When I first heard of CASA through a friend from TX, I decided to check out the organization here in my town. From my very first contact, I knew I wanted to volunteer. The professionalism of the staff coupled with their warmth and compassion for every child in foster care was clearly evident. During the training we heard from a variety of professionals serving these children; social worker, lawyer, the judges, probation officer, therapists and more. The calibre of each presenter was so impressive. I was deeply moved by their compassion and commitment to the well-being of each and every child. I had no idea we have so many incredible, dedicated human beings working together to create a better future for the children, youth and their families in the system. I feel privileged to be a part of the CASA organization, to be a voice for a child, and a part of the greater team.

Becoming a CASA has been one of the most gratifying experiences I have ever had! The training I received was top of the line, very organized, informational, and a pleasure to be a part of. I am very proud and genuinely humbled to be a CASA to a young brother and sister that are in the foster system. I would highly recommend it to anyone that has the heart and desire to help children.

We have supported CASA for over 15 years without a doubt the best support system for children in need. The director is superb and extremely dedicated to the entire organization and especially the kids.

I have a professional working relationship with CASA. I have seen first hand the dedication and compassion the CASA employees towards their mission. This is a special organization to have in our community. They contribute to the lives of foster children as well as enhance the community with well-trained volunteers, an active and an active and hard working Board, and provide the non-profit sector with an outstanding and efficiently managed non-profit.

I have been a volunteer, in various organizations, for about 45 years and can say without hesitation that my time with CASA has been the most meaningful of all. Not only have I had the chance to become close to some wonderful, sensitive children, but I also have had the satisfaction of knowing that I have been able to impact their lives in sometimes substantial ways. For example, I just returned this morning from a court hearing in which my comments regarding the child's future were welcomed by the social worker, the attorneys and the judge. I am proud to be part of this fine organization, which cooperates so well with our partners in Sonoma County who also care deeply about the welfare of our children.

I have seen the amazing things that this program achieves with the students that I work with as a school counselor. I support it whole heartedly!

CASA has hosted interns from SRJC for many years. Student interns always gain valuable experience because the staff provide excellent training and supervision.

I have participated in many different kinds of volunteer work over the years, but my experience with CASA has been life changing. It does my heart good to see how much this organization truly cares about children, and everyone on their staff is dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of the youth in their community. I have been a CASA for about 6 months now, and I sincerely feel like it gives me the opportunity to make a difference in a young person's life. I hope that if you are reading this review, you will consider donating to this top notch organization, or maybe even becoming a volunteer. I guarantee that you will be glad you did!

I can truly say this nonprofit is nothing but pure good. I've seen so many adults and youth be positively changed by CASA of Sonoma County. It fills a void no other nonprofit does and is a guiding light for so many.

A TOTALLY impressive organization. Having been involved with them as a Board member and in other capacities for about 10 years I am fully aware of the good it has done for the children. Very well run organization - it's all about the kids.

I have heard the stories and met a few of the children this organiAtion helps. I know every dollar I give goes towards helping these unfortunates.

I am a newer foster parent of a teen boy who had been living in a group home for many years. He came to live with us when he was kicked out of his group home due to his non-compliant behavior. His CASA has been a fixture in his life for years. Despite the turmoil of adolescence, made especially precarious for youth in long term foster care, my foster son has stabilized and is beginning to spread his wings. He seeks out his CASA for companionship and his CASA has a grounding effect on him. His CASA is straightforward to the court about my son's needs and we both rely on him to advocate for the services necessary to keep my son moving in a positive direction.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) fills a very specific need in our community. Foster children are given a voice - sometimes for the first time in their lives. As a volunteer, you develop a relationship with a foster child and teach them by example that adults can be dependable, trustworthy and caring. Almost as important is what is learned as a volunteer ; resiliency, hope, courage. Foster children teach us so much more than we can teach them.

I have been a CASA for nearly two years and take great joy in knowing that I, through the CASA Program, have had a concretely real, boots-on-the-ground positive and important impact on the life of a very troubled youth. Being a CASA through the Courts allows me to have a real say in all the essential things in a youth's life from education to housing and medical/psychological needs to simply providing some fun in an otherwise not-fun life and hope with a plan for their future.

CASA of Sonoma County is an amazing nonprofit! I became a volunteer recently after attending the summer training session. The director and staff are incredibly supportive and dedicated to the mission of advocating for abused and neglected children. The role of CASA is so important in the community and I am proud to be a volunteer child advocate with this program.

CASA of Sonoma County is an exceptional organization that serves the at-risk youth in Sonoma County. You would not think that there would be orphaned/abused/neglected children in such an expensive area- the wine country- but, surprisingly, there is a huge need in this county. CASA serves in a role that is unlike any other. They are the conduit between child in need to a child who is cared for and mentored; And who is represented in family court so that every aspect of their needs is discussed and heard by the family court judge via representation from a CASA volunteer (among others). Volunteering as a CASA is by no means easy. It's a large time commitment, training, spending quality time with your child, following through with reports and other tasks. But it is all in the interest of your CASA child, which makes it a rewarding experience, and at the same time serves an incredibly important role in the community.

I joined this volunteer Board earlier this year and am excited about all the great things we do in support of children who don't have a voice. As a Mom and Grandmother, I know how important it is to have someone in your corner supporting you and showing you through actions that every child is beautiful, smart and deserves the opportunity to be loved and the freedom to be a child. Children who are in need of a CASA, need someone to advocate for them and let them know they are important, beautiful and smart. What you receive in return for your efforts is priceless. Won't you consider making a difference in a child's life? Thank you for your consideration!

I have been a CASA for about three years. We work one-on-one with children who are wards of the court. It is extremely rewarding and enriching work. We CASA's get tremendous support from the
CASA organization. It is so important for these children to have an advocate. They often do not have capable parents or adults in their lives. The organization is well respected by all the professionals who work on these cases; judges, lawyers, and social workers, among others. This is a great organization!

I became a CASA this past February and it has been very rewarding. The staff and volunteers at the Sonoma County CASA are wonderful! I get great support and never feel like I am doing this alone! I am honored that I am able to serve my community this way.

I have just finished my first year as a CASA. Their offices offer many educational seminars for us to learn about what Sonoma County has to offer our CASA children developmentally and educationally - right through Sonoma Junior College. No matter what my question may be, there is someone willing to research the answer and get back to me right away. Every single CASA employee is devoted and has decades of experience working with children and Human Services. I am honored to be a part of all they do for children. It's really been a joy for me.

I have been a CASA since 2005. I have found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. As a single parent of two amazing sons for the last 17 years- I know the importance of not only love and attention, but guidance and example for children. It has been an honor to be part of such an important organization. Being a CASA has given me a chance to see the "other side" of children's lives, the trauma, the sadness as well as the hope these kids face.

My cases have all been very different. The one thing they have in common is the need for their voices to be heard. The need for a path to follow, and light at the end of sometimes a bleak tunnel.

I have enjoyed the interaction with not only the children, and the other CASA volunteers, but also the benefits and the immeasurable support from my CASA office. Millie and the office are extremely helpful - and provide all of us the amount of encouragement and information needed to be the best CASA's we can be.

I will continue my role as a CASA for as long as needed with the children of Sonoma County. Making sure they are safe happy and healthy as well as productive in life is paramount in shaping the next generation.

Danyea Tylman

I have been a Volunteer for CASA since 2000. I have had the honor of being an Advocate for three sets of siblings. Even though they are no longer part of the CASA program, I keep in touch and watch as they grow and experience the wonders of life. With the support of Volunteers and the friendships that come from the dedicated workers at CASA we all can make a positive change in the lives of the children in CPS and foster care. I feel CASA and these children have done more for me than what I could ever do for them. Thank you CASA for all your great works and I look forward to continuing to do my best for these children.

There is no more noble cause or pressing need for the trained volunteers which CASA helps to place with youth who are in foster care or for some reason are involved in the juvenile justice system.

I have been a CASA since early 2009. The training I received before being matched with my foster girl was exceptional. My assigned youth is now a young woman with a great job whom I still see regularly. She often says she would be "nowhere" without the CASA program and its support. I look forward to continuing to work with his amazing organization.

I have been involved with and supporting the CASA organization in Sonoma County for about 10 years. I have the most respect and admiration of the work that CASA takes on to work with the Court system to represent children who have no other advocate when they are separated from their families. CASA boosts the confidence of the youngest of this displaced population and provides guidance through the labyrinth of the system to make their lives meaningful and positive -- and eventually to a successful independence. I can't speak enough of the great positive impact that this particular organization i.e. CASA/Sonoma County has had on the community and lives of so many children.

CASA is the most amazing program for youth. This program gives a voice to those that cannot speak on their behalf. This program has truly changed my life and I hope the live of multiple youth. I would recommend this program to anyone that wants to make a difference. Youth are the future of our society and they should be nurtured and guided in order to be successful adults and make this world a better place for us all.

I have been a CASA for over five years. The work CASA a is doing for children in the foster care system in Sonoma County changes lives. It has certainly changed mine. It is a commitment of time and effort but also of heart and soul. To be the one person in my youth's life who is consistent, dependable, and supportive gives me real joy. CASA of Sonoma County is an outstanding nonprofit organization!

I have had the pleasure of knowing the Executive Director for over 15 years. This organization does an amazing job of advocating for foster youth in ways that truly make a difference. I highly recommend supporting this worthy program.

I have just finished the 40 hour CASA training and recently received my assignment. During the training and the tours of various facilities I received comprehensive, invaluable information. The presenters were clearly dedicated to their work with our County's youth and families. Likewise, they are committed to having CASAs as equal members of the professional team. I feel valued and respected already, and I have just begun this journey! CASA of Sonoma County appears to be a cohesive and knowledgable organization. As a former director of volunteer services in a large medical center, I am very impressed with the quality of staff support and leadership for its volunteers.

This organization does something really important for one child at a time. Each child with a volunteer CASA has an adult who will stay with the child from the time assigned till the child leaves the legal supervision of the county legal system. The CASA can make a difference that that child's life that can last a lifetime. How rewarding this can be.

The CASA youth stands alone because of circumstances and in order to survive. Most accumulate multiple addresses and schools plus revolving professional staff members throughout their young lives. Only their CASA is a constant.

My hope for my CASA boys was that one day, no matter how distant, they would know that someone cared about them. Although I have retired, their names are still posted on my dashboard because I still care.

Peter C. Grauert

As a volunteer I have always been impressed with the dedication, and team efforts made by the executive director, office staff, and volunteers in helping children in the community.
CASA strives to improve the lives of children that are in need, someone to be there for them where vacancies have often been left, and hardships have been handed out.
After moving to Sonoma County I was talking to a family member, telling them I wanted to volunteer, and they recommended CASA to me. They had heard great things about CASA, and told me to "check it out", I did my homework, and feel I made the best choice........great place to volunteer

I was a CASA volunteer and am currently a Board member. The CASA volunteer is a screened, trained & dedicated person helping kids in need of an adult role model. The kids have been removed from their parents and need help in dealing with social workers, teachers, attorneys, etc. The CASA can be the constant in the child's life. CASA is a very worthwhile non-profit.

I volunteered for CASA for eight years, the most rewarding work I have ever done. The Foster kids appreciated what I did for them, even the little things. Yes, I helped make a difference in their lives, but I got even more back from the experience. To take on a child that didn't know what a good adult in their lives looked like, and gain their trust was amazing. To show up at a group home, and to be considered a "rock star" just for being a CASA were big shoes to fill. If you have the time in your life, I recommend getting involved. The agency does a great job training and supporting you. Not an easy volunteer job, but if you want to make a huge difference, this is the gig.

Volunteering for CASA has been a very profound and soulful experience. Meeting the children, getting to know them and allowing them to get to know me, has been a richly rewarding experience. (I sincerely wanted to adopt one of the children.) It is wonderful to donate money to such an organization and I can't encourage that enough, but to donate your time and your heart is much better, when possible. The staff members, volunteer supervisors and executive director are always available and more than willing to lend support and expert guidance. I have never had the pleasure of dealing with such a compassionate, professional and effective group of individuals. Working with the children is such a richly rewarding experience, I believe everyone should become involved in doing so, or at least be involved with CASA. I believe you will see yourself in the eyes of a child, whatever their background, and grow a little yourself as did I. I will always stay involved and support the great work of CASA of Sonoma County does, contribute however I can, and encourage others to do so as well. There are children out there right now that will change your life for the better, if you will step forward to change theirs. You can make all the difference in the world, TODAY! God bless.

The impact on the lives that CASA Sonoma County has touched is unprecendent. The stories you hear from the children that have gone through CASA are life-changing; both for the child and the CASA. The CASA volunteers dedicate an enourmous amount of time, energy and resources and I am forever thankful for their committment to the agency.

CASA has been such a blessing in my life and the lives of these youths. There are so many children out there that have no one to turn to in their time of need. CASA's are their voice in court and society. CASA's are a resourse for them with regard to health, education, housing and jobs. Some of these youths do not have skills that we take for granted. This experience has changed my life forever, I wish that I could be a CASA for a career I would have 10 kids!! There are so many kinds that need help and they are the future of our world, they need us just as much as we need them. We have to take a stand to make a change for the better of society and future generations. I can not stress how supportive and fantastic the CASA volunteers supervisors are either. They are always there for support when you just need to vent about anything; they always have the answer. I have no idea how Millie does what she does but it is always for these kids and she and this program is a TRUE inspiration. I hope that there are many more people that want to become CASA's so that one day there will not be a witing list and that all of the kids that need the help and support can get it. Again, thank you to CASA, the volunteer supervisors, Millie and most importantly the kids. This is a great program that I think everyone should get involved in, to make a difference in the lives of these youths.

I feel honored and blessed to be a CASA. After retiring from community college teaching, I spent several months looking for meaningful volunteer work. CASA has met my highest expectations. The screening is rigorous, the training is detailed and helpful, and the ongoing support and supervision are exemplary. Although the greatest joy of being a CASA is spending time with a youth in the foster care and/or delinquency system, a CASA is much more than a mentor or friend. Our task is to stay in touch with social workers, probation officers, teachers, doctors, group home staff or foster parents, to keep information flowing and to see that our youth does not fall through the cracks of our overstressed human service and delinquency systems. CASAs write court reports that judges, attorneys, social workers and probation officers actually read. Best of all, my particular youth, who has been in and out of group homes and juvenile hall, is now in a place where he is starting to move beyond years of abuse and to grow in wondrous and exciting ways. CASA makes a difference.

I have been involved in other volunteer programs in the past but I have to say serving as a CASA is the most rewarding experience I have ever had. There is no measurement you can place on being the voice, a mentor, a support sytem and consisent presence in the life of a child. I currently have 3 CASA children each of them having different backgrounds and stories. Although things may not always move along as quickly as I would like, I see endless possibilities for a successful future for them. To see the sparkle in their eyes when they see me and/or to be the ears they need when they have tears in their eyes makes it all worth it. Getting involved can seem scary and overwhelming at first. To be completely honest, the fear of making a mistake was in the back of my mind but then I realized if these brave children can face their fears everyday then so could I. I am so glad I did not let the fear hold me back!!!

I have always been someone who wanted to make a difference, but didn't feel that I had much to offer in the way of talents. When I learned about Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), I realized that I could make a difference to a child and I didn't need to be anybody but myself to do so. Being a CASA has been a wonderful experience. The dedicated staff at CASA of Sonoma County support the volunteers every step of the way. Mother Theresa advised others to do small things with great love. Being a CASA is doing just that!

Working with CASA was a tremendous experience. The organization works extremely hard to provide a child in Sonoma County with a volunteer who will advocate for them, support them through their challenges in the system, and maintain a relationship with the child even after aging out of the system. The number of relationships formed and positive experiences through the organization are inspiring. I would encourage anyone to become a CASA and make a difference in the life of a child.

Having been both an employee of the local CASA of Sonoma County, and continually providing professional website design & maintenance services as a volunteer (to present), I have found this organization to run "lean and mean". Meaning, this organization works hard, very hard, for each and every donation it receives; There are no extravagances; And, it uses that money very wisely, thus allowing the largest portion to go directly to the children in need. The clients of CASA are children who are abused and/or neglected in Sonoma County, and this organization provides a personal advocate for each child, guiding them through the court system, and advocating for all their needs, such as schooling and medical. The Honorable Judges of Sonoma County REALLY listen to what reports, recommendations and news the volunteer "CASA's" bring to the courtroom on behalf of the child. Often, social workers do not have enough time to dedicate as much as a CASA can bring to the case, so this is very valuable information that can shape the future of a young person. Together, with a whole team of CASA's, the volunteer advisers, the volunteer supervisors, and all the rest of those who work together, help to build a promising future for these children. Consider becoming a volunteer CASA, an intern, a donor, an in-kind donor, a corporate donor, or volunteer for various fundraising functions throughout the year. There are so many ways to help, just give them a call 707-565-6375 or visit http://sonomacasa.org/ for more information. Thank you!

Court Appointed Special Advocates in Sonoma County trains volunteers to support individual youth in the complex child welfare system. The trainers for this program, including myself, are local experts in their particular section of the field. There is a cohort of trainer/advisers that consistently return, as volunteers, since the program began fifteen years ago. This loyalty, to give our professional time to ensure that new trainees are connected to the community of providers for youth, is a product of the value that CASA staff place on effective relationships. As a presenter I get honest and timely feedback from the trainees, staff and director. As a professional in the field I bring updated information and materials to the CASA staff. This dynamic engagement of professionals with volunteer supervisors and staff gives strength, depth of information and understanding of multiple systems interactions to the entire program. The volunteers benefit by having broad expertise as close as a call to their volunteer supervisor when they need it. As a CASA serving two youth myself, this is beyond price when an issue arises quickly, as they do.

Being a part of CASA is one of the most rewarding opportunities I have encountered in my life. Through their extensive and thorough training program, I was provided the tools and support necessary to be able to advocate for youth in my community. Over the past four years, I have been lucky enough to work with three wonderful young ladies who are just finding out who they are and what they want in life. This experience has definately opened up my eyes and shown me how important the children are to the overall well being of society in general. CASA is one of the most important organizations I have ever worked with...

I have been a proud Sonoma County CASA since 2005. I have had two cases that have been very different. I feel the interaction I have had with both children has been essential to them in a positive way. My training and introduction to the CASA organization was nothing short of amazing. The speakers and the people from the Courts and various departments as well as the CASA Staff and Director, give 110% to this program, and that is what it makes it work. The intention of what is best for these children is what is most important. My role as a CASA has had a great impact on me in many ways. It has opened my eyes to the challenges that children face, that parents face and the ways in which they affect each other for possibly years to come. I have learned that the consistency and dedication of just one person can make a difference in a child's life that can sometimes be the saving grace. Just ONE person that cares and is there for them, shows up and listens to them, and responds to them, this is what makes a happy child. Truly my experiences have made me realize all children need that special someone that looks out for them and only them. I am proud to say that I have taken on this role and have made a difference.

As with most of life, it can be what you put into it. CASA of Sonoma County offers not just the opportunity to improve the life of a child, through improving the child's experience of being in the "system," accompanying them through some of the most difficult years of their life, but this program also offers the volunteer the chance to be the change that he or she wants to see for their local community. The "system" is overwhelmed and CASA volunteers often become the most consistent presence in the life of an at risk youth. Sonoma County's program offers tons of support through reviews, ongoing education about relevant issues, and volunteer accountability and recognition. There is a high degree of emphasis placed on integrity and reputation, on empowerment and collaboration. This is an organization that truly embodies its mission.

CASA is one of the most important organizations in the County. I believe this organization is efficiently and effectively run by people devoted to the welfare of kids and coordinates many of the institutions and programs that effect their lives. I trained as a volunteer and was impressed with everything about the people involved and the program. I have not been able to follow through at this time for family reasons but intend to as soon as I am able.

While I do not have any direct experience to share about the wondeful work that this organization does on a daily basis, I can speak directly to something that is an issue with most non-profit organizations - the intregity of its managment and its overall stewardship. I have been the accountant for this group for several years. I have never found any questionable issues in all my work with them. Management and the Board thinks of the mission first and foremost. I would encourage anyone and everyone to contact them and aid CASA's work in any way possible.

I have volunteered within the CASA office for almost three years now, and it has been a wonderful and fulfilling experience. Since I have worked within the office, I do not have the experience of having a youth, but I can report that the office staff really works extremely hard to support each CASA with their case. I have learned so much and been able to work with CASA volunteers. Hearing the stories and experiences that the CASA volunteers relate to us about their youth is amazing and really shows how much impact the volunteers and the CASA program as a whole have on these children. These youth have so many professionals in their life, but it's really important for them to have people like CASAs who support them, report on their behalf, and are a constant presence in their tumultuous lives.

Becoming a CASA volunteer is one of the best programs in Sonoma County. I have done many different volunteer programs in the past but nothing compared to CASA. Within this organization I'm given the opportunity to be the voice of a child who has been neglected or abused. I just became a CASA and already I have a strong bond with my youth. They offer great resources and information to help me gain knowledge for personal growth. I love this program because it gives me the opportunity to make a change in a childs life. I highly recommend this volunteer program to who ever has an open heart and wants to make a change in a childs life. Good Luck with your Journey :)

CASA is a great organization. Become a mentor and help a disadvantaged kid or a youth in out of home placement. It only takes a few hours a month and most youth are very appreciative. My youth becomes an adult soon and has asked me to continue to me a part of his life.

I've been a CASA for 8+ years. I've worked with 2 brothers, the younger who is now 17&1/2. His older brother is 23 and employed. The younger has been on a downward spiral for over a year and is not willing to listen to anyone at the moment. One of the hard lessons one has to learn as a CASA is that there are times when there is nothing you can do except make sure the youth knows you're there. He is a great kid with tremendous potential and has gotten every service an imperfect system has to offer including a wonderful, caring social worker. No end to this story yet. The sisters I'm working with are both doing well in very different homes. Some of the wonderful things about being a CASA is the variety of experiences you have, what you learn about yourself, that most of those you work with are very dedicated, and that things can change in an instant. It has been and continues to be a wonderful organization to volunteer for.

I was a CASA for 7 years and advocated for two young men. I'm still mentoring one of them who turned 20 recently and has been out of the court system for a couple of years. I see him weekly. CASA is critical for these young persons who generally, for no fault of their own, find themselves alone in the world without caring parents. Social workers don't have enough time or energy to adequately serve the use they are assigned, and in one of my cases made errors or judgement which I had to address with the court. The CASA team is very supportive of volunteers and provides training support to make them successful. I recommend CASA to my friends who are looking for volunteer opportunities for youth. I'm 74 and just not able to take on a new young person but do enjoy working weekly with the young man whose CASA I was for 7 years.

I have been involved with CASA for 15 years both as a volunteer and a board member. Sonoma CASA serves children that otherwise would be neglected and continue to live with health and education needs not being addressed. They tend to be the invisible children in our community. Millie Gilson has been a model of leadership for both her staff and her volunteers. Sonoma County is not only large geographically but also has a high population of bi-lingual families that benefit greatly from CASA volunteers.

The CASA team in Sonoma County is passionate, supportive, and very professional. While I've only been a CASA volunteer for a short time, I'm inspired by the experience and it's changing me. Reminding me to be more thankful and patient with my community. My CASA Kid is a cool young man, and we're doing something timeless - slowing down to spend time with each other, building support for each other, and learning from each other. It's a powerful program.

Had the opportunity to volunteer with CASA and I was able to learn and meet wonderful people. Not only was I able to make a difference in the lives of two children but I was also able to learn a lot from them. The CASA program is wonderful and very supportive to all its volunteers and the children they serve. Best program I have ever been part of !! J.Sanchez Santa Rosa, CA