Make a Difference in Lancaster: CASA Volunteers Needed to Advocate for Foster Children
In Lancaster County, a vital opportunity awaits dedicated individuals ready to make a significant impact in the lives of vulnerable children. The Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Lancaster is on the lookout for volunteers willing to step forward and voice for children in the foster care system. This program is essential in providing support and ensuring these children have the stability they so desperately need to find safe and permanent homes.
The Call for Volunteers
Currently, only half of the children in foster care are being represented by CASA volunteers. With a pressing demand for more advocates, the organization is emphasizing the urgent need for community involvement. Their mission is clear: one child, one advocate. “Our volunteers are life-changers,” noted Laura Wilcox, the director of operations at CASA Lancaster. “Right now, we’re only able to serve about half of the children in foster care. But our goal is to make sure every child who needs a CASA has one — and we need more volunteers to make that possible.”
Are you passionate about helping children? CASA is offering a comprehensive training session starting in March 2025, inviting potential volunteers to embark on this transformative journey. The training equips individuals with the necessary tools to effectively advocate for children in a court setting and in their personal lives.
An Inspiring Information Session
On October 22, CASA Lancaster hosted a thought-provoking information session. This event was led by Wilcox, alongside Erin Small, a seasoned volunteer with six years of experience under her belt. Small shared her own journey and highlighted how CASA volunteers are instrumental in providing stability and guidance to children navigating through difficult circumstances.
“Building relationships with the kids I work with is what I love most,” Small explained. “We don’t make decisions, but knowing that I’m a constant presence in their lives when everything else feels uncertain — that’s what makes this work so powerful.”
Small’s insights illustrate the significant emotional and relational impact volunteers can have on the children involved in the program. It’s about creating a supportive, consistent environment for children who may feel lost and uncertain.
The CASA Mission: A National Movement
Founded in 1977 in Seattle by Judge David Soukup, CASA has evolved into a national movement aimed at transforming the lives of the most vulnerable children in society. CASA Lancaster has been serving local children since 2005 and, as of today, has 105 volunteers supporting 163 children. Despite these efforts, the need continues to grow, pressing home the importance of community engagement in the foster care system.
At CASA, volunteers are entrusted with the responsibility of advocating for children’s best interests within the legal system. This includes communicating closely with the child, their families, foster parents, and caseworkers, ultimately providing judges with detailed reports that inform decisions affecting the child’s future.
The Journey of Advocacy
For anyone considering becoming a CASA volunteer, preparation is key. The process begins with an informational session, which is followed by interviews and background checks. Once accepted, volunteers undergo a thorough 30-hour training program spread over seven weeks. Meetings typically take place on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., starting in March.
Once trained, you’ll become a “friend of the court,” equipped to advocate for a child’s needs and well-being. Research indicates that children with CASA advocates are more likely to achieve stable, permanent homes and receive essential services.
“It takes heart and patience,” Wilcox advised. “But the reward is seeing a child thrive, knowing you’ve been part of their journey to safety and stability.” Her call to action resonates with anyone who believes that every child deserves a nurturing environment, highlighting that one person’s efforts can create lasting change.
Taking the Next Steps
If you’re ready to step into this life-changing role, reach out to Laura Wilcox at laura@casalancleb.org or call 717-208-3280 for more information about how to get involved.
But volunteering doesn’t stop with CASA. If you’re still exploring different ways to give back, check out the United Way of Lancaster County’s Get Connected platform at uwlanc.galaxydigital.com to discover a variety of local volunteer opportunities tailored to your interests and availability.
As society continues to face challenges, now is the perfect time to consider how you can contribute to the well-being of children in our community. Being a CASA volunteer is more than a responsibility; it’s a chance to change lives, one child at a time.
Join the Movement
With the right passion and commitment, you can help ensure that every child has a voice in the system designed to protect them. The opportunity to make a difference is right in front of you — will you take the first step?
Indeed, your journey towards advocacy and change can start today — because every child deserves a fighting chance.
