Scottsdale Nonprofit CASA Seeks Volunteers to Support Foster Children

In Scottsdale, a dedicated nonprofit is marking four decades of unwavering support for foster children and is reaching out to the community for assistance.

 

Voices for CASA Children, established in 1985, has been a beacon of hope for countless children navigating the complexities of the foster care system.

 

As this Scottsdale organization commemorates its 40th anniversary, it emphasizes the pressing need for more volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs).

 

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CASAs are trained volunteers who advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

 

They play a pivotal role in ensuring that these children find safe, loving, and permanent homes.

 

Currently, there are approximately 500 CASA volunteers in Arizona, yet over 5,000 children are in foster care, highlighting a significant gap.

 

Denise Serro, outreach coordinator for Voices for CASA, underscores the importance of these volunteers.

 

She notes that CASAs often provide children with "hope bags"—packages filled with comforting items—to help break the ice during initial meetings.

 

"It's a good way for CASA to break the ice," Serro explains.

 

"Maybe have something when they first meet them to offer the child, and it really means a lot to them."

 

Alexis McLane, a current Scottsdale CASA volunteer, shares her personal motivation for getting involved.

 

Having faced the daunting experience of appearing before a judge in family court during her youth, she understands the fear and uncertainty these children endure.

 

"I did have to go in front of a judge in family court and be questioned by lawyers, and it was very scary to me," McLane recalls.

 

She emphasizes the profound impact a CASA can have by introducing a sense of normalcy into a child's life.

 

"Many times, kids haven’t seen anything outside of the group home," McLane says.

 

"So to take them out to eat or to a special event, it means a lot to them."

 

This Scottsdale organization is actively seeking volunteers from diverse backgrounds, including men, people of color, and Spanish speakers, to better reflect and serve the community's needs.

 

Marcia Bhattachayra, another dedicated CASA volunteer, speaks to the rewards of the role.

 

"Their thriving is my glory," she states.

 

"To see them progress, to do so well, is amazing."

 

For those interested in making a tangible difference in the lives of foster children, Voices for CASA Children offers comprehensive training and support for new volunteers.

 

By stepping forward, community members can help bridge the gap and ensure that every child in foster care has a dedicated advocate by their side.

 

To learn more about becoming a CASA, head to their website.