The English language seems to be overflowing with acronyms these days, but there is one acronym that is very important to Iowa kids who are struggling. It is CASA.

It stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. A CASA is a volunteer who works with children who have been removed from their homes or were placed under the supervision of the state. Their responsibilities include regularly visiting with the children, meeting with case workers and parents, and making recommendations to the courts.

The regular tasks of a CASA include gathering information, reviewing documents, and conducting interviews. It can indeed be tough work. But it can also be immensely rewarding to help a child, helping to guide them through all kinds of challenges on their way to becoming well-rounded young people. In some cases, a CASA may be the only consistent presence in the lives of these children,

More CASA volunteers are needed in Calhoun, Hamilton and Webster counties.

CASA volunteers receive training in the special needs of children who have experienced abuse, courtroom procedure, social services and the juvenile justice system.

To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer, contact Crystal Engstrom, CASA program volunteer coordinator, at crystal.engstrom@dia.iowa.gov or online at childadvocacy.iowa.gov.

We encourage everyone who wants to do something to help children to consider becoming a CASA. It’s a chance to positively impact a lot of young lives.