PHOENIX — Every child deserves a voice. This May, CASA of Arizona is calling on Arizonans to step forward and be that voice, in recognition of Foster Care Awareness Month. One consistent, caring adult can change the trajectory of a child’s life.
There is an urgent need for dedicated volunteers to advocate for children navigating the foster care system. In Arizona, approximately 7,000 children are currently in foster care. This can result in these children facing uncertainty, new environments, and different life transitions. These changes can be traumatic without a consistent adult solely focused on their best interests.
“Volunteers provide stability and a sense of connection during some of the most difficult moments in a child’s life,” said Charles Gray, CASA of Arizona Program Manager. “Their advocacy helps ensure each child is seen, heard, and supported.”
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers serve a critical role by ensuring a child’s needs, well-being, and future remain at the center of every decision made in court. These volunteers are paired with a child in foster care and build a relationship with them, gathering information from all parties involved to make informed recommendations to the court. Their insights help judges determine the most appropriate path forward with the goal of achieving safe, stable, and permanent homes.
No prior experience is necessary to become a CASA volunteer. Anyone aged 21 or older who can pass a thorough background check and complete the required training is encouraged to apply or contact their local county programs for more information.
Another volunteer opportunity is through the Foster Care Review Board (FCRB), which has similar requirements. Volunteers serve on community-based panels that review cases monthly, working collaboratively to assess progress and make recommendations for the best interest of the child. The boards meet online once a month.
A different way to help a child in foster care is to open your home and become a foster parent. It is a remarkable opportunity to provide care and support to a child in need of a stable home environment.
Learn More
To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer visit, www.AZCASAVolunteer.org
To learn more about becoming a FCRB volunteer visit, www.azfcrb.org
To learn more about becoming a Foster Parent visit, dcs.az.gov/foster/learnmore
