Check back on this page for news from our organization and stories about the impact CASA Volunteers are making in our community.
We are excited to share some wonderful news from CASA for Douglas County. Kimberly C. Barnes, our Executive Director, has been appointed to the Urban Leadership Council of the National Court Appointed Special Advocate/Guardian ad Litem (CASA/GAL) Association. Serving a two-year term, Barnes will join child welfare leaders from across the nation to voice the unique needs of the 895 local programs within the CASA and GAL network. In 2022, this network, with its 87,937 volunteers, served 227,500 children involved in judicial proceedings related to abuse or neglect. The Leadership Council will focus on ensuring the network achieves its mission of serving all children through best-interest advocacy.
Kimberly's extensive experience and passion for advocacy, especially within systems for children and families that impact Black and Brown children, make her an excellent fit for this role. We are proud of her commitment and dedication to enhancing the welfare of children across the nation.
May is Foster Care Awareness Month, dedicated to raising awareness about the experiences of children in foster care and the urgent need for support and advocacy. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Douglas County proudly aligns with the Children's Bureau's campaign, "Engaging Youth, Building Supports," striving to enhance opportunities for children and families within the foster care system. This year's theme underscores the critical necessity for a child welfare system that genuinely engages and supports young people as they transition out of foster care.
At CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Douglas County, we believe that behind every piece of advocacy lies the unwavering dedication and passion of our Volunteer Advocates. On Wednesday, April 17th, we had the honor of celebrating and recognizing these remarkable individuals at our 2nd Annual Volunteer Appreciation Dinner.
As we commemorate Black History Month, it's essential to reflect on the significance of diversity and representation within organizations like CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Douglas County. While the child welfare system aims to support children and families from all backgrounds, the reality is that Black children and families are disproportionately represented within the system. While addressing this disparity, it becomes crucial to empower and recruit diverse advocates representative of the children we serve.
CASA for Douglas County has scheduled the 4th Annual CASA Classic golf tournament for August 26, 2024 and are excited to announce Joe Miller & Holton Harman as the 4th Annual CASA Classic chairs!
CASA for Douglas County celebrated the holiday season with its annual Children's Holiday Party on December 8th, bringing together volunteer advocates and the children they serve for a magical evening. At the heart of the event is the joy of giving, with CASA ensuring that each child's wish is fulfilled with a small gift of their choice and a board game.
Embracing the joy of families united on National Adoption Day! Join CASA for Douglas County in commemorating the magic of adoption and the resilient journey of countless children towards love, stability, and hope.
