Every year, more than 23,000 young people age out of the foster care system in the United States - often without the support they need to thrive. In Arizona alone, over 600 youth exit foster care each month, and far too many face heartbreaking outcomes: 60% experience...

Director Ptak assumed her role in January, 2025, and is the first woman to lead the Arizona Department of Child Safety. She previously held the role of DCS General Counsel. Director Ptak has a vast background in child welfare and public policy including time at Casey...

It is uplifting to see CASA Volunteer Week mobilized at the community level. We are deeply grateful to the cities that joined us to recognize the incredible work of CASA volunteers through official proclamations. Your acknowledgement shines a spotlight on the voices...

This month, VOICES said thank you to a room filled with CASA volunteers at our Moments that Matter Annual Appreciation Event. Filled to the brim at the East Valley Institute of Technology, everyone enjoyed a wonderful breakfast prepared and served by the youth in the...

Earlier this month, we celebrated the inaugural CASA Volunteer Week, an awareness and recruitment campaign highlighting this crucial volunteer role. The spirit of #BeTheirVoice continues. Thank you for joining us in support of these remarkable CASA volunteers, current...

Children who have experienced trauma often display behaviors that may seem confusing or unpredictable. These behaviors are not random but are deeply connected to how a child’s brain has learned to respond to stress, fear, and uncertainty. To support CASA volunteers in...

DCS announced their FY2025-2029 Strategic Plan. Focal Points Include: Increasing the percentage of families who receive services through Family Resource Centers Increase percentage of children who exit to permanency within 12 months Reduce the disparity ratio of Black...

March is National Social Work Month, a time to recognize the incredible professionals who advocate for children and families in need. Social workers are at the heart of the foster care system, ensuring youth have the safety, stability, and resources to thrive. Their...

National CASA continues to highlight studies that evaluate the impact of CASA volunteers on youth. CASA volunteers, themselves, can articulate what they witness every day. They see the change in children that have experienced trauma. They know the difference they are...