Voices for Children as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs).
Foster care and adoption are virtually inseparable topics. The stories we find in the media about foster care are often happy tales of children finding their “forever homes.” While those accounts are uplifting, the fact is that adoption from foster care is rare.
MYTH: All children in foster care will one day be adopted
Imagine being seven years old when, suddenly, police show up at your door and take you away. In the chaos, you are only able to gather a few belongings to take with you. Your world is turned upside-down. Thousands of local children, who have been abused or neglected, have had to endure this traumatizing experience.
Thankfully, thousands of individuals step up each year to volunteer with Voices for Children as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs). They work to ensure children’s needs are met, with the ultimate goal of finding a forever home. Research has shown that a child with a CASA is more likely to find a safe, permanent home, and substantially less likely to spend time in long-term foster care.
Adoption from foster care is rare for children older than age 7, and many stay in foster care until adulthood.
Each May, organizations across the country celebrate National Foster Care Month. It is a time to raise awareness about foster care and acknowledge the individuals, families, and communities who support foster youth. Honor the dedication of CASA volunteers this month by making a contribution at www.speakupnow.org or by attending one of VFC’s upcoming events.
Wine Women & Shoes Saturday, May 12
Be there. Be fabulous. Be giving! More at www.speakupnow.org/WWS.
