Raising Awareness for Vulnerable Children
CASA Case: Luke and Katy’s Story
Many things can define us, if we let them. The tie-breaking goal at a championship game may characterize you as a star athlete. Your father’s career choice designates you as a ‘pastor’s kid.’ Your winning chili recipe establishes you as a ‘master chef.’ Often times, it’s the more negative experiences that seem to define us…
CASA Communication: Tips to Frame a Child’s Story
Over recent weeks, we have explored ways that volunteer advocates communicate to remain positive, respectful, and inclusive. Afterall, the primary role of a Court Appointed Special Advocate, aka CASA, is to amplify a child’s voice. While within the courtroom, we literally act as the child’s voice. However, outside of the courtroom we want to find…
CASA Communication: Value Through Language
Every single one of us wants to feel seen and valued. This is especially true for a child, or family, that may be walking through life feeling unseen in the dark shadow of their challenging circumstances. Our words, even when intended to be positive, can unintentionally exclude or dismiss people. Unfortunately, those who feel different…
CASA Communication: Uplift with Words
“As one person, can I really make a difference?” We’ve all entertained this thought at one time or another. Complex situations, like the ones that often play out in the child welfare system, can feel daunting and endless. It’s only natural to wonder what kind of good we can do when so much appears to…
CASA Call to Action: Prioritize Children
We have all heard the phrase “children are our future.” It’s true… but children must be our present in order to become our future. We must prioritize their well-being now – their health, safety, and education – in order to ensure they have a future. Not just any future, but a future beyond surviving where…
CASA Case: Tyler’s Story
The number of children requiring advocacy in our area is growing substantially. Did you know that: Approximately 75,000 children live in Henrico County 3,529 children were reported to Child Protective Services in 2021 During this period, 385 were appointed a Court Appointed Special Advocate 88 new children were referred to CASA over the most recent…
CASA Call to Action: Race Matters
Race matters. That is why at Henrico CASA we believe our volunteers, staff, and leadership should reflect the diversity of the population that we serve. We strive for all of our partners to feel safe and comfortable as people, and within their roles at our organization. It’s why we explore topics like equity, inclusion, and…
CASA Call to Action: Volunteer Your Voice
Our team at Henrico CASA often uses the phrase “a child’s voice.” We recognize that all children have a voice and it’s our responsibility to ensure it is heard. We stand up and speak up for children, acting as their voice in court. And we encourage our volunteers by reminding them that by using their…
CASA’s New Strategic Plan Helps Children and Families Navigate Change
Our team at Henrico CASA is emerging from a few months of chaos. Last November, our office embarked on exciting renovations and upgrades to include building two new offices, installing sleek flooring, and getting a fresh coat of paint. While there was excitement around the upgrades, we also knew there would be significant disruption to…
CASA Volunteers Give Children a Voice
As humans, we all have a voice but we may not feel empowered to use it, especially in a way that influences. To fully “have a voice” you must embrace your thoughts and experiences in order to communicate them effectively. Your words hold weight. Your point of view is important and plays a role in…