A CASA is a trained volunteer sworn in by the court to represent the best interests of children who have been abused and/or neglected and have active CHINS (child in need of services) cases in the court system. The volunteer investigates the child’s circumstances, provides fact-based information to the courts through writing reports, and makes recommendations to the courts while becoming a source of support for the child.

A CASA’s ultimate goal is to move a child out of temporary placement – usually within the foster care system – into a safe and permanent home. This could mean a return to the parent’s care, adoption, the appointment of a legal guardian, or some other permanent living arrangement that satisfies the court and meets the child’s needs.