What is CASA
- A CASA is a specially trained community volunteer appointed by a Juvenile Court Judge to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in court proceedings.
Why is the CASA needed?
- There are over 3100 abused and/or neglected children in Pima County. The ongoing involvement of a CASA, acting as the “eyes and ears of a judge,” greatly assists in determining whether a child can be safely returned home or placed in a foster or adoptive home.
Why have a CASA?
- The child’s best interests are represented
- Vital and timely services are provided to the child
- The child has a consistent, caring person throughout the process
- Cases having a CASA come to clousure or permanency more quickly
- CASAs help ensure the children do not “fail through the cracks” of the system
What does a CASA do?
- Monitors the child’s health, psychological and social needs
- Ensures educational needs are being met
- Interviews individuals pertinent to the child’s case
- Submits ongoing reports to the Juvenile Court Judge
