Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). The Voice of the Child in the judicial system.

All children deserve a safe loving home with loving people to care for them. In Nebraska, each year many children are abused and neglected, many are removed from their homes and placed in foster care. They end up in court, and their only crime is that they are victims of abuse or neglect.

CASA volunteers are Court Appointed Special Advocates for children--specially trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to speak up for abused and neglected children in court. CASA volunteers give their time to the community to help children. The CASA volunteer is free to advocate for what is in the best interest of the child by following the National CASA and NE CASA Association standards and policies.

CASA volunteers do not replace a caseworker, but is an independent appointee of the court. The CASA volunteer can make recommendations to the court independent of state agency restrictions.

CASA ensures that the Judge receives unbiased information about the child’s case. The CASA remains on a one-on-one basis with this case for as long as the child remains in the judicial system.

CASA volunteers save the County money each year in Guardian Ad Litem fees. CASA volunteers see or visit with their CASA case at least twice a month. CASA volunteers are a friend to the child, listen to the child, and help guide the child through the court system.

To be a CASA volunteer you MUST be 21 years of age; make a commitment for one year; willing to donate 2-6 hours per week; attend training sessions and review-training materials provided by CASA office; maintain strict confidentiality; maintain objectivity and professionalism in dealing with all parties; posses verbal and written skills.

Donations to Keith County CASA can be sent to: Keith County CASA; PO Box 358; Ogallala, NE 69153