CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates, and this is something I never knew anything about until I joined Theta. I had never even heard of this organization until Philanthropy Night my freshman year, and now as an active member I realize just how many other people don't know about CASA. Raising support and awareness for CASA has become an important part of my life, and I hope that one day CASA will become as well known as St. Jude's or Children's Miracle Network.

1. What is CASA?

Court Appointed Special Advocates is an organization that was created in 1977 to help abused and neglected children in the foster care system. A CASA, which is also known as a guardian ad litem, are appointed by judges to be a consistent presence in the child's life, while also helping them navigate a court system that is confusing and intimidating for adults. CASA's help children get placed into safe, permanent homes and work to make sure they don't get lost in the overburdened family court system.

2. Who are CASA's?

CASA's are unpaid volunteers that spend around 15 - 20 hours a month on their case, and who agree to stay with a child's case until it is closed, which is usually around a year and a half; but this varies. You don't have to be a lawyer or a child specialist to be a CASA. You just have to be 21 or older, pass background checks and screening, and complete a 30 hour training course.

3. How Much Does it Cost?

It costs around $1000 to advocate for a child for one year. And if you can't be a volunteer, private organizations like Theta provide events where donations can be made and money can be raised to support CASA's ability to advocate for children.

4. How Many CASA's are there?

CASA has around 1,000 programs spread over 49 states with around 76,000 volunteers. And while these numbers are impressive, there are over 600,000 children in the foster care system, so most CASAs are appointed to the more difficult cases. Last year, around 238,000 children found permanent homes thanks to CASA. The more volunteers and support CASA gains, the more children they can help.

5. Where is the nearest CASA?

The nearest CASA to UC Davis is the YOLO County CASA and anyone interested in being a volunteer can apply through their website, www.casaforchildren.org. Not anywhere near Davis? Not a problem. CASA's website can search for the program nearest you, and if there isn't a nearby program you can apply to start a program in your area.