Our July Jeans BeCause recipient was CASA Of Cook County, Court Appointed Special Advocates for Children. The CASA vision is to protect children who have experienced neglect and abuse by providing them a voice in court, a safe and permanent home, and an opportunity to grow, learn and thrive.
For nearly 30 years, CASA of Cook County has been training diligent, committed, everyday citizens to stand up for children in the foster care system who have suffered the trauma of abuse and neglect. Trained volunteers advocate for the best interest of foster children who are under the jurisdiction of the Cook County Juvenile Court through no fault of their own.
CASA of Cook County’s Child Advocacy Program works to diminish the challenges faced by children in foster care by recruiting, training and supervising community volunteers who advocate for the best interests of children in court and who strive to ensure that children leave the system to live in safe, permanent homes. Unlike caseworkers and other child welfare professionals, CASA volunteers handle only one case at a time and are able to give each child the attention he/she needs and deserves.
Volunteer advocates are court-appointed to cases deemed most in need of individual, dedicated support. CASA dedicates one advocate to champion one child, or one set of siblings, ensuring that the child’s voice is present in court even if the child is not.
To learn more about CASA of Cook County, read some of their stories. learn how to get involved and provide support, click here.
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