Changing Lives,
One Child at a Time
Every child deserves to grow up in a safe, stable, and loving home. Yet for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, that future can feel out of reach. CASA of West CenLA exists to change that story. Our volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for children’s best interests—making sure they are seen, heard, and supported in the moments that matter most.
​
Last year alone, 43 CASA volunteers gave more than 2,700 hours of service, standing alongside 68 children in Beauregard and Vernon Parishes. Each hour invested, each recommendation made, and each voice raised created ripples of hope and healing that will last a lifetime.
Brighter Futures, Stronger Communities
When a child has a CASA by their side, the difference is undeniable. Research shows that children who have experienced abuse or neglect fare better with a CASA volunteer by their side. Studies have shown:
These outcomes don’t just change a child’s life—they strengthen families and communities for generations. Here in our community, we see these results every day. CASA volunteers work closely with teachers to ensure children get the educational support they need. They collaborate with social workers and service providers to connect families to resources. And they stand before judges with informed recommendations that put a child’s well-being first. Together, these efforts build brighter futures for children and a stronger, healthier community for us all.
Reaching Permanent Homes
For children in foster care, nothing is more important than stability and belonging. CASA volunteers play a vital role in helping them reach safe and permanent homes more quickly. By listening to children, engaging with families, and working hand-in-hand with judges and child welfare professionals, CASA volunteers bring clarity to complex cases and help guide children toward lasting solutions.
​
Sometimes, this means helping parents access the services they need to reunify with their children. Other times, it means connecting children with kinship care or adoption, ensuring they are surrounded by love and stability. Whatever the path, CASA volunteers remain consistent voices until a case is closed—because no child should face uncertainty alone.
Supporting Well-Being Over Time
Children’s needs extend far beyond a safe home. They deserve opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive at every stage of life. CASA volunteers advocate for the whole child—physically, emotionally, and educationally.
Children’s needs extend far beyond a safe home. They deserve opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive at every stage of life. CASA volunteers advocate for the whole child—physically, emotionally, and educationally.
Here in West CenLa, volunteers often become the steady presence a child can count on during uncertain times—someone who will celebrate milestones, encourage resilience, and ensure that every child has the support they need to flourish both now and in the future.
Addressing Trauma with Compassion
The effects of abuse, neglect, and trauma can last a lifetime, impacting a child’s mental health, relationships, and sense of self-worth. CASA volunteers are trained to understand how trauma affects children and to advocate for services that promote healing.
​
They spend time with each child, listening to their fears, hopes, and dreams. They talk with teachers, doctors, foster parents, and extended family members to build a full picture of what the child needs. And when they stand before the court, they bring that understanding forward to recommend solutions that prioritize healing and stability.
At CASA of West CenLa, our volunteers walk beside children through some of their hardest days. Their presence brings compassion, stability, and a reminder that—even in the face of trauma—every child has the potential to heal, to grow, and to hope again.
Join us in making an impact
The impact of CASA is measured not just in numbers, but in lives transformed. Last year, 68 children in Beauregard and Vernon Parishes had a CASA volunteer to stand up for them, ensuring they had a voice in court and a chance at a brighter future. Every child deserves that chance. With the continued support of our community, CASA of West CenLa will keep changing lives—one child, one volunteer, and one case at a time.