WHO WE ARE
Our Mission
OUR MISSION
A statewide network of volunteers for children
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) was established by Louisiana state statute (Louisiana Children’s Code Art. 424) in 1991 with the mission of advocating for the timely placement of children in safe and stable homes. In 1994, the Louisiana CASA Association was established to provide guidance, oversight, and assistance to the three existing local CASA programs. Since then, Louisiana CASA has been dedicated to expanding CASA's reach across the state and helping establish 14 additional local CASA programs.
Our mission is to build, support, and advocate for a statewide network of court-appointed volunteers to speak for abused and neglected children. Our vision is that every Louisiana child be assured a safe and permanent home.
THE CASA MOVEMENT
It began with one Judge
In 1977, Seattle Court Judge David Soukup was concerned about trying to make decisions on behalf of abused and neglected children with very limited information.
He conceived the idea of appointing community volunteers to speak up for the best interests of these children in court. He made a request for volunteers; 50 citizens responded, and that was the start of the CASA movement.
OUR VALUES
Every child deserves a safe home
At Louisiana CASA, we are guided by principles that reflect our unwavering commitment to children and families. Our values shape the work we do every day, ensuring that every child’s right to safety, permanency, and well-being is at the forefront of our mission. These values drive our dedication to supporting local programs, advocating for sound policies, and fostering collaboration across the state.
FAMILIES
We value the worth of children and families.
PERMANENCY
We value a child’s right to a safe and permanent home.
SERVICE
We value and support local CASA programs in their efforts to serve abused and neglected children through best practices and quality advocacy.
POLICY
We value policy and practices that support the priorities and needs of abused and neglected children.
RESPONSIBILITY
We value responsible stewardship of association resources to provide services to the CASA network.
DIVERSITY
We value the strength and uniqueness that defines the cultural and racial diversity of Louisiana’s communities and families.
COLLABORATION
We value the opportunity to promote and participate in collaborative efforts which support the best interest and welfare of all of Louisiana’s children and their families.
Local Programs
Local CASA programs work directly with volunteers to advocate for children in foster care. They recruit, train, and support CASA volunteers, ensuring they are prepared to speak up for the best interests of children in their community. Each volunteer is assigned a dedicated Advocate Supervisor who provides guidance throughout their case, ensuring effective advocacy and support.
Louisiana CASA
Louisiana CASA serves as the statewide organization for local CASA programs across the state. We provide training, resources, and advocacy efforts to ensure each program has the tools they need to serve children effectively. Louisiana CASA also works to set standards, unify the network, promote awareness, and advocate for policies that improve the child welfare system in Louisiana.
OUR SUPPORTERS
Working together for Louisiana's children
The impact we make is possible because of the generous support and collaboration of our partners, grantors, and sponsors. Their commitment to our mission helps us expand our reach, enhance our services, and continue advocating for the best interests of children and families across Louisiana. Together, we are building brighter futures, one child at a time.
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BECOME A VOLUNTEER
Ready to make an impact?
Every child in foster care deserves someone who will stand up for them—someone who will be their voice in court, fight for their best interests, and help them find a safe, permanent home. As a CASA volunteer, you can be that person. Join us in our mission to advocate for the most vulnerable children in our community and make a lasting impact in their lives. Are you ready to take the first step?