Kaycia completed CASA training in Summer of 2024. She currently serves on a case with one teen girl.
Why did you become a CASA?
I became a CASA because I am passionate about supporting the “underdog” in all areas of my life. This role allows me to advocate for the best interests of children, motivate them, provide a voice when they might not otherwise be heard, and teach them the value of community. If I can encourage just one child in Jasper County and leave them better than I found them, it will be worth every ounce of time I invest.
What was a moment you realized CASAs make a difference?
I realized the impact CASAs make well before becoming one myself. Having served Jasper County CASA in various capacities for a few years, I witnessed firsthand the positive effects on the children in our community. Since becoming an official CASA, I’ve seen how much more support I can offer, not just to the child I serve. I’ve been able to create “ah-ha!” moments for their parents, support the GAL with insights from basic conversations, and most importantly, ensure all parties are aware of opportunities that could benefit my CASA child.
What would you say to someone considering being a CASA?
“What are you waiting for?!” Seriously, if you wait for the perfect time to make a difference, you’ll never actually make that difference. Life is full of uncertainties, and there’s rarely a perfect moment to start something this meaningful. The impact you can have on someone’s life, especially a child going through such a life disturbance, is too important to delay. By taking action now, you can begin to create positive change and inspire others to do the same, and again, perhaps you’ll impact more than just the child you serve. Don’t let the fear of imperfection hold you back—every effort counts, and the difference you make today can shape a brighter future for those in need.
Anything else you would like to share with the community?
Becoming a CASA is more than just a volunteer role—it’s a commitment to making a lasting impact on the lives of children in need. Every small action, every moment of support, and every bit of advocacy can create a ripple effect that transforms not only the child’s life but also the community as a whole. By stepping up and getting involved, you’re not just helping one child; you’re contributing to a much bigger picture, one that is brighter and better for everyone. So, take that step today and be the change you wish to see in the world.
Cassie was sworn in as a CASA in October 2024. She currently advocates for 4 children.
I became a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) because I wanted to be a voice for children who might not otherwise be heard. Every child deserves to feel safe, valued, and supported, but unfortunately, not all have that in their lives. I wanted to be someone who could stand in their corner, advocate for their best interests, and help guide them toward a brighter future.
Being a CASA allows me to make a real difference by building relationships with children in foster care, understanding their unique needs, and ensuring that their voices are considered in court decisions. It’s a role that requires dedication and heart but knowing that I can help change a child’s life for the better makes it all worth it.
I knew I had made a difference in my CASA kids’ lives the moment I walked into their school cafeteria. As soon as they saw me, their faces lit up with the biggest smiles, and they came running to me. In that instant, I knew they felt safe, valued, and supported. It was more than just a greeting—it was a sign that they knew I was someone they could count on, someone who truly cared. Moments like that remind me why I became a CASA—because every child deserves to feel seen, heard, and loved.
Thinking about becoming a CASA? Do it! Being a voice for a child in need is one of the most rewarding things you’ll ever do. You don’t have to be perfect—just present, committed, and willing to make a difference. Every child deserves a champion. Will you be theirs?
Being a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is one of the most impactful ways to change a child’s life. Many children in foster care don’t have a consistent adult who is solely focused on their well-being, and that’s where a CASA steps in. We advocate for their needs, ensure their voices are heard in court, and provide stability in an uncertain time.
It doesn’t take special skills—just a heart to help and a willingness to show up. The reward? Seeing the difference you make in a child’s life, whether it’s through a smile, a hug, or simply knowing they feel safe and valued. If you’ve ever thought about making a lasting impact, I encourage you to learn more about becoming a CASA. Every child deserves a champion—will you be one?
Jody has been a CASA since 2019. She is one of our original volunteers and has advocated for 10 kids across 6 different cases. She currently serves 2 teen boys.
Why did you become a CASA?
I became a CASA after seeing a video at church that Debi did. I thought it sounded like a great program, and I loved that it was new, and I could get into it from the beginning.
What was a moment you realized CASAs make a difference?
The very first moment that I realized the difference that a CASA makes was on my very first case. After my child had been moved to the third foster home, I went to visit. My kiddo’s reaction was to smile and run to give me a hug, because I was a familiar and trusted face in yet another new situation.
What would you say to someone considering being a CASA?
Each case I have had has had its own moments that remind me how much I love this program! If someone is considering becoming a CASA, I would say “DO IT!” You will receive so much more than you give, and you WILL fall in love!!
Greg was sworn in as a CASA in May of 2024. He currently advocates for one child.
Why did you become a CASA?
I had recently retired from teaching, and I wanted to continue providing service to others in some capacity. I just happened to see a commercial on tv, and I became curious about the role of CASA. The rest is history!
What was a moment you realized CASAs make a difference?
I first really realized when I saw a small child struggling to make sense of an uncompromising world around him, and he reached out to me for calmness in the storm.
What would you say to someone considering being a CASA?
Opening your heart to a child and becoming a CASA will change your life! The program that you go through is so organized and supportive in providing for you and your child’s successes. This is the closest thing that I have seen to a guardian angel, so a CASA could also be a “Court Appointed Special Angel”!
Anything else you would like to share with the community?
I have learned so much in the last six months, and there is no question that I will be a CASA for the rest of my life!
Cheri became a CASA in February of 2024. She advocates for 1 little girl.
Why did you become a CASA?
After being retired for a few years, I honestly just became bored and feeling that my life was stagnant. I missed interacting with others and having a purpose or benefit in life. I knew I wanted to work on an individual basis with others, where I could still have the flexibility of hours committed. I remembered a conversation with a couple of my nieces in eastern Missouri that had become CASA Volunteers and they spoke highly of the challenges and satisfaction they felt by volunteering. I contacted the Joplin CASA office to find out more and I felt a connection.
What was a moment that stood out to me?
I am currently with my first CASA child, and couldn’t ask for a sweeter girl. It became clear quickly that she craved the individual attention that I was able to give her. Her past had left her with broken relationships and promises and she opened her heart to me. I think the whole concept behind being a CASA Volunteer, being a person that is there to support the child, and nothing else, is a great idea. As a volunteer, your purpose is to focus on the child’s needs. And, it’s not just my involvement, I have the support of the CASA Joplin organization that works with me in providing activities, guidance, materials and fun functions at the CASA house.
What would you say to someone considering being a CASA?
Just do it!! Don’t be afraid of being a CASA Volunteer. The information and support you get from the staff is amazing. The program not only provides initial training, they have numerous on-going training/information activities to help guide you. They provide fun activities, dinners, parties and facilities to share with your child. Also, they have activities for the volunteers only, allowing us to share our experiences and gather helpful tips for our cases. As a volunteer, you are never alone at meetings or court hearings, as a supervisor is attending with you. So don’t let lack of experience stop you………you have so much support.
Sue became a CASA in 2019. Since she started volunteering, Sue has served 7 teens in Jasper County.
“Here is what I can say about being a CASA….
If you truly want to positively impact a child’s life…there is no better place to experience that than by being a CASA…
You will be required to recognize and accept that all families don’t look or do things the same way…and that is okay.
You will have the opportunity to engage with and get to know kids whose lives have been disrupted, and provide them with some opportunities to forget about that…even if it is just for a while.
You will get to encourage them in tough times and celebrate with them in their victories!
You will have to persevere when difficult issues arise, and you will get to help them persevere and commend them when they do.
You will have the opportunity to mentor them, and by doing that you will learn more from them than they will learn from you.
And through this process….you will grow to love them.
If you truly want to change a child’s life…become a CASA.”
Amanda has been a CASA in Jasper County since August of 2022. Since becoming a volunteer, Amanda has served 5 children, including 4 teenagers.
Why did you become a CASA?
I originally became a CASA in Jackson County over 15 years ago. I was a part of a grassroots organization with the mission of connecting every child in the greater Kansas City area with a mentor and CASA was one of our partner organizations. CASA seemed to be the best fit for me at the time. A couple years ago I saw a friend’s social media post about Jasper County CASA and to be honest I didn’t know we even had an office, so of course I had to explore what opportunities were available! It is exciting to know CASA is expanding to serve more kids across the nation. And it remains the best for me today!
What was a moment you realized CASAs make a difference?
In my first case a school concern threatened consistency for one of my kiddos. I voiced my concerns and halted this disruption. That was the first time I realized my voice mattered a lot. I can’t imagine how much trauma that disruption would have caused long term, honestly probably for all of the kiddos in the family, and I am glad we were able to protect my kiddo from that.
What would you say to someone considering being a CASA?
You don’t have anything to lose exploring your interest in CASA. Set up a time to talk to Ericka, ask all the questions, explore the materials, and trust the process. You will only be better from the experience.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
There is a place for you at CASA! Whether your gift is advocacy or a marketable skill you can share with our CASA teens, as a tutor for our kiddos, through a monthly donation or whatever (be creative!), I promise there is a place you will fit in this work!
Alexa has been a CASA since October of 2023. She currently advocates for 2 young boys.
Why did you become a CASA?
When I first learned about CASA, I was inspired by the organization’s mission to advocate for children in foster care. Learning that there are hundreds of kids in Jasper County that are in foster care was a huge eye opener for me, and I wanted to help lift their burdens in any way I could.
What was a moment you realized that a CASA makes a difference?
When I was still brand new to my first case as a CASA, a tragedy took place that dramatically changed the children’s lives. Very difficult decisions were being made, and there were times that I had to raise safety concerns and advocate for the opposite of what was being suggested. In the end, my advocacy helped them end up in situations where they are thriving now. Watching them overcome hard things and grow since I first met them has been so incredibly rewarding.
What is something you would say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
There are so many children in our community that need someone to advocate for them. As a CASA, you get to know these kids better than most, which allows you to speak up for them when decisions are being made… and I cannot overstate the impact that this can make in a child’s life. Becoming a CASA volunteer has just been the most profound & fulfilling experience for me.
Kim has been a CASA since February of 2024. She currently serves on a case with 3 children.
Why did you become a CASA?
I became a CASA because I realized the need for such volunteers after attending a few of the events supporting the CASA House. I was at a point in my own life where I had more “free time” and I wanted to invest in other children’s lives and help make a difference.
What was a moment you realized that a CASA makes a difference?
One of my kids asked if we could always stay in contact even when their case closed – I knew at that moment that my role in his life was pretty special.
What is something you would say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
Carving out time and spending time with a child is the best way to make a child feel special. If you have extra time in your life that you can spend with a child that needs a positive influence, become a CASA.
Jana has been a CASA since May of 2022. Since becoming a CASA, Jana has served on a case with 4 kiddos.
Why did you become a CASA?
I wanted to become a CASA because I’ve always loved being around children of any age. They make my heart smile. I am amazed at their resiliency through hard things in life. As a nurse recovering from an autoimmune disease, and knowing I was no longer able to do most nursing jobs, I still had that calling to help others. I needed to take baby steps as I worked on improving my health. So, I decided I wanted to do volunteer work involving children. CASA seemed like a perfect fit! At the time, I was having difficulty getting to class. I met many great friends during training.
What was a moment you realized that a CASA makes a difference?
Although there are many situations I realized CASAs make a difference the first time four little happy, smiling faces ran up to me with hugs and “I love you’s”. These kids went from neglectful, harmful homes to now being surrounded by people who wanted to see them thrive. My CASA kids have been fortunate to stay together in a stable foster environment surrounded by relatives, however, not all foster children are afforded that option. A CASA is a committed court-appointed advocate who is there to support their CASA kids, be their buddy, be their friend, show up for them, listen to them, and know when they just need to be kids.
What is something you would say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
If someone told me they were considering being a CASA, I would use that opportunity to tell them that it is very rewarding volunteer work. Not only do the children benefit but so do you. You feel that little pat on the back or smile from God knowing you are serving with a good heart. Although court appearances might be daunting, you may not need to appear in court at all. Written reports suffice.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
We use numerous community locations to have fun, eat a meal, have parties, and provide educational opportunities.
Elaine has been a CASA since February 2024. She currently serves on 2 cases with ages ranging from 1 year to 14 years old.
Why did you become a CASA?
While researching ways I could become involved in helping victims of trafficking, I came across CASA. I didn’t realize how many children were in the system because they have been removed from their parents for various reasons. There are so many children who need someone who is on their side, advocating for them, supporting them, and helping them achieve their goals despite the circumstances they find themselves in through no fault of their own! The more I researched it, the more I became convinced that this was the place that I could make an impact.
What was a moment you realized that a CASA makes a difference?
I have had several moments where I realized CASAs make a difference, but one that happened recently just melted my heart. I had been attending football games of one of my teenagers. After the game, he came up to me and hugged me and thanked me for coming to his games!
What is something you would say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
It is not something to take lightly. It does take some work and can be challenging at times. But the difference you make for the children in the system makes it all worth the effort. It is very rewarding to see the children’s faces light up when you come to visit them.
Is there anything else you would like to share with the community?
If you have a heart for kids and want to find a way to volunteer that can make a difference and is also rewarding, then I urge you to research CASA. Call and talk to someone in their office. They would be more than happy to help with any questions you might have.
Tiffany became a CASA in October 2023. She currently serves on a case with 6 kiddos ranging from 6 months to 10 years old.
Why did you become a CASA?
It was always my dream to volunteer and give back to the community after I retired from teaching. Being a CASA seemed like a natural choice since I love children and I knew I wanted be a voice for the most vulnerable of them.
What was a moment you realized that a CASA makes a difference?
One moment when I realized that a CASA makes a difference was when one of my foster parents texted me and said, “Thank you for seeing the kids today! They were both super excited about their surprises and “sis ” has been having a rough week so it seemed liked it helped boost her morale by seeing you today.” That text meant everything to me! I have worked to build relationships with all my children, and it makes my heart overflow to see them light up when I come for a visit. Another moment that I realized a CASA makes a difference was after I took my four-year-old, who loves fire trucks, to the fire station and his foster parent told me later that he shares his memory book of that trip to anyone and everyone who will listen. He was also a fireman for Halloween.
What is something you would say to someone considering becoming a CASA?
Don’t wait, jump in and do it! The children need you as much as you need them! You will be incredibly blessed to serve these children. Also, the staff at CASA is the BEST! They will help you every step of the way.
Notifications