CASA volunteers are community members working collaboratively to support and advocate for children and families involved in the child welfare system.

Below are just a few examples of actual Family Court cases in counties where the CASA volunteer advocate made a real difference in the life of a child. These are just a small example of how CASA volunteers in New York State are part of a community working to change a child’s story.

*Due to the importance of confidentiality, the names have been changed to protect the children’s identities in the examples listed below.

A MISSED DIAGNOSIS

CASA was assigned to “David”, an 11-year-old who was diagnosed with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) and Oppositional Defiant Disorder (ODD). David experienced repeated school suspensions. During a CASA visit, David’s grandmother mentioned he had been diagnosed with autism when he was five. Although CASA inquired to the DSS caseworker and the school, no one, including the Committee on Special Education (CSE), had any record of David ever having such a diagnosis. CASA investigated further, eventually tracking down the doctor who had made the original diagnosis. The doctor provided CASA with medical documentation of the diagnosis. After notifying all parties, including the DSS caseworker, attorney for the child, and in a written report to the judge, David’s suspension at school was lifted, and he was provided with the correct services to support his diagnosis.

READING BOOST

CASA was assigned to two girls, “Jill and Judy”, ages 8 and 11-years-old. Upon assignment, Jill and Judy, who were in the second and fourth grades, tested at reading levels in pre-K and first grade. In less than a year, the girls were at first grade and third grade reading levels. By getting to know the children during regular monthly visits, the CASA Volunteer discovered Jill liked Barbies and Judy liked animals. Subsequently, at every visit, CASA brought books for the girls according to their interests. Much of CASA’s visit time was spent reading to them and being read to. CASA also had several communications with both Jill and Judy’s teachers to be sure the books purchased were at the proper reading level. Previously, it was reported to CASA that the girls never did their homework. After less than a year with their CASA volunteer, it was reported the girls almost always came to school prepared with their homework.

PERMANENCY AND STABILITY

Over the course of her time in care, “Maria” experienced more than five placement changes. Through every move and every setback, her CASA remained a constant, trusted presence, advocating for her best interests and ensuring her voice was not lost in the system. The lack of permanency and repeated disruptions began to take an emotional toll, and Maria started exhibiting significant behavioral challenges that reflected the trauma and instability she had endured.

Eventually, Maria was placed with a newly licensed foster family who had just completed their training. They had originally hoped to foster an infant, so welcoming an older child with complex emotional needs was a major adjustment. The placement was fragile, and there were multiple moments when it was questioned whether it could be sustained. At times, there was serious concern that the foster parents might request her removal from their home.

Despite the turmoil, Maria’s relationship with her CASA remained strong and powerful. Her CASA continued to provide encouragement, reassurance, and hope, while also supporting the foster parents through communication and advocacy. Several family interventions were held, some with the foster parents alone and others including Maria, all aimed at building understanding, strengthening communication, and stabilizing the placement.

The turning point came when the foster parents were asked to make a critical decision: commit to adoption or allow Maria to be moved once again. After receiving a distraught phone call from Maria, her CASA immediately met with her and the foster parents in their home. During this meeting, with the support and encouragement of her CASA, Maria found her voice in a way she never had before. A child who typically struggled to express even a single sentence spoke for over 30 minutes, sharing her fears, her pain, and what she needed to feel safe and truly part of a family. She was heard without interruption, and for the first time, the foster parents were able to fully understand her heart and her needs.

This moment transformed the trajectory of Maria’s life. The foster parents gained clarity, empathy, and connection, and what had once been an uncertain placement became the foundation for permanency and belonging.

As a direct result of CASA’s unwavering advocacy, consistent presence, and commitment to ensuring Maria’s voice was heard, the foster parents chose to adopt her. On December 18, 2025, after 1,092 days in foster care, Melody officially left the system and entered her forever family.

EDUCATION ADVOCACY

CASA was assigned to “Lisa”, a 14-year-old girl who was removed from her home due to parental neglect. She was placed in the care of an older adult sister who lived a few hours away, and she started 8th grade at the end of September in the new district. After settling in for a few weeks, CASA contacted the school to check on Lisa’s attendance, grades, and IEP. CASA learned that the school had Lisa registered as a regular education student and had no record of her IEP. CASA alerted them that Lisa did indeed have an IEP and followed through to make sure they made those accommodations in her schedule. The school then quickly set up the IEP re-evaluation/transfer meeting, which CASA attended.

CASA was assigned 2-year-old twins. These twins had special needs due to autism. Over the span of 3 years, CASA has assisted with getting adaptive equipment such as an adaptive wagon for walks, adaptive clothing, and a special communication device for one of the twins. CASA also advocated for a special pediatric dentist. The CASA (a retired teacher) played an important role in getting the children’s education on track in their school of residence in regard to their IEP’s. In particular, consistent communication programs between school and home. Once adopted, the foster mom was assisted with OVS applications, which were approved. The one twin will benefit from adaptive/play therapy not covered by traditional insurance.