CASA NYC

There are a lot of people in the room when a foster care case begins: the judge, the child, a representative from a foster care agency, the child’s biological parents, other family members, court staff, and lawyers. These are the people who determine a child’s future. CASA understands that no two children are alike, and each has a unique set of circumstances that must be considered when working on their behalf.

By speaking for the child, CASA introduces a human element into the court proceeding and positively influences the next phase of the child’s life.

Our volunteers advocate on behalf of the child, oversee services, and provide recommendations for progress. Most importantly, they provide help and hope for a child’s future. Sometimes, the goal of the court is to reunite the child with a biological parent, or to explore adoption possibilities. For older youth, the goal is often to prepare them for independent living.

CASA-NYC is called in to help with the most difficult and complex cases. A child may have been a victim of violence; he may have physical or learning disabilities, or special emotional and/or psychological needs.

It cannot be emphasized enough that no other organization in New York City has the same or even similar goals as CASA. Our master-level social work and legal staff recruit, train and supervise community members to provide effective advocacy for foster children and youth. In 2012, our advocates volunteered 20 hours of their time each month and served over 1,500 foster children and youth.
CASA-NYC Brochure 2011