PHOENIX — The beginning of April recognizes CASA Volunteer Week, providing an opportunity to recognize and honor the dedication of CASA volunteers, raise awareness about the urgent need for more individuals to step forward, and make a difference in the lives of children in foster care.
April is also Child Abuse Prevention Month, shining a light on the need to support families across Arizona. Each year, reports of abuse and neglect bring thousands of children into the child welfare system, and for some, this results in placement in foster care. These experiences can disrupt a child’s sense of stability, separating them from familiar environments and relationships at a critical time in their lives. Children navigating the child welfare system face ongoing uncertainty, making it even more essential that they have strong advocates in their corner.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers serve as dedicated advocates, ensuring that each child’s best interests remain at the forefront of every recommendation made to the Judge. Through consistent support, CASA volunteers build meaningful connections with the children they serve. These volunteers collaborate closely with attorneys, child welfare professionals, and community partners to help ensure that every child has their needs met.
Preventing child abuse starts with awareness, but it requires continued commitment to strengthening families and increasing access to services for support. These resources help communities create safer, more stable environments for children to grow and thrive.
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 are appointed by the Court to serve on a 5-member panel that meets online once a month to review the cases of children in foster care.
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
