Every day, a child in Mississippi appears in a courtroom - not for a criminal action, but as a victim of abuse or neglect. You can change that child’s story by training to serve as a volunteer court-appointed special advocate - someone solely focused on the child’s best interests.
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Benefits to System
Trained CASA volunteers provide research, information, and recommendations about what’s best for the child, enabling Mississippi judges to make more effective and child-centered decisions.
Over 93% of judges report a very positive overall experience with the CASA program.
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Benefits to Kids
Children who have experienced abuse or neglect have endured highly stressful, and potentially traumatic, adverse childhood experiences. Having a stable relationship with a supportive adult can help children cope well and go on to have healthy and successful lives.
A child with a CASA volunteer:
- Will spend 4 to 6 months less time in foster care
- Will receive more needed services such as counseling and tutoring
- Is more likely to stay in school and go on to graduate
- Is half as likely to re-enter the foster care system
- Is more likely to find a safe, loving, and permanent home
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Benefits to Volunteer
Our advocates have a passion and commitment to this work that is invaluable to our most vulnerable victims. CASA volunteers make a life-changing difference for children and youth. Each volunteer is trained and supported by highly-qualified staff members.
Many volunteers have felt the call to become a foster family, but for various reasons have been unable to fully commit. Becoming a CASA volunteer offers an opportunity to make a lifelong lasting impact in the life of a child.