As February unfolds, we embrace the spirit of champions and the strength that lives in all of us. Just like the athletes at the Super Bowl or the Waste Management Phoenix Open, CASA volunteers are true champions for children living in foster care.
Yet, let us not forget the other half of this dynamic duo – the youth themselves. In the face of challenges, they showcase remarkable strength and courage. Together, CASA volunteers and the youth they support create the ultimate team, proving that strength is a shared journey.
Follow along as we celebrate and highlight the power of advocacy and the champions who make it all possible.
In The Spotlight – Their Story, Our Why
There were many champions in 2023! CASA volunteers, youth, supporters…and the team here at VOICES honors each of them.
Take a moment to read a few of the 2023 impact stories. These will help you gain a deeper understanding of the CASA volunteer role and, most importantly, how a youth’s day-to-day life was improved and their outcomes made more promising.
My CASA Journey
As a CASA Volunteer, you never know what unique needs you uncover as you get to know your appointed child.
Sometimes it is identifying the gaps such as a bank account for a minor or a kinship placement that is low on diapers. Or unique situations such as the child who wanted to know his ancestry or a toddler requiring a custom medical car seat. Often it is simply wishes for ballet shoes, basketballs or a trip to the water park. Tiny requests for tacos at lunch, a Saturday baseball game or seeing the lion at the zoo.
At these times, a CASA is not only filling gaps, but building strength in that child’s ability to believe in a hopeful tomorrow.
Champions for Positive Outcomes – Kappa Alpha Theta
There are champions worldwide! Kappa Alpha Theta is a fraternity that was founded in 1870 with 147 collegiate chapters in the United States and more than 200 alumnae chapters and circles worldwide.
And their philanthropic focus is the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program!
Theta women are passionate in their sisterhood and in making a difference in their community.
Through VOICES, CASA volunteers and their appointed youth have benefitted from the generosity of the ASU Collegiate and local alumnae chapters. Last month, VOICES was honored to speak on the annual Founders Day Breakfast. We shared how the Theta community has helped to make a positive impact on the CASA volunteer experience and youth living in foster care.
We are forever grateful to this community of strong and compassionate women.
Thank you, Thetas!
To learn more about Kappa Alpha Theta:
Community & Youth Connections – Book Drive
Books are more than just stories; they are windows into new worlds, opportunities for learning, and sources of inspiration. VOICES believes that reading is the cornerstone for learning in all areas of life. Reading is essential for a child’s development as it enhances language skills, stimulates cognitive growth, and fosters academic success. It promotes empathy, social skills, cultural awareness, and emotional bonding.
That is why our book drive holds such significance for the VOICES Hope Bag Program, which aims to support CASA Volunteers in their first interaction with their appointed youth. These Hope Bags, comprised of an age-appropriate toy, book, and blanket, serve as a beacon of hope and connection for children navigating the complexities of life in foster care. They help “break the ice,” creating a sense of support and trust between the child and their CASA.
During the month of March, Voices for CASA Children will be hosting our yearly book drive to offer these unique experiences to the CASA volunteers all year long. So, how can you get involved? It’s simple! Contribute to the VOICES 2024 Book Drive by shopping our Amazon List. You can select from a curated collection of titles and have them shipped directly to our office. It’s never been easier to make a difference in the life of a foster youth.
Start by donating new books through our Amazon List, and let’s make this the most successful book drive yet! #forthechildren
In Focus – Connecting With You
VOICES is now leveraging text message communication to provide our supporters an easier way to participate in supporting youth through our various drives. For example, we sent a text message to our supporters to highlight the holiday gift drive and will use text messaging for our upcoming book drive mentioned above. This supplements our traditional email communication.
If you have not received text messages from VOICES, but would like to be included in future campaigns: Yes, Include Me!
Reminder: You can still donate to a Qualified Foster Care Organization (QFCO) and receive tax credit benefits for the 2023 tax year. Reference VOICES QFCO #10010
Be A Champion For Youth – Donate Now
Strengthening Advocacy Through Education
Being a child advocate means championing for appropriate placement, resources, and avenues for healing. Although research consistently highlights the remarkable resilience of children in foster care, this resilience is not inherent; it’s developed through meaningful connections and long-lasting relationships. CASA volunteers understand the profound impact of relational connectedness on a child’s development and well-being.
By providing consistent support, empathy, and guidance, they help children living in foster care build trust, self-esteem, and a sense of belonging. These bonds serve as the cornerstone of resilience, empowering children to navigate challenges and thrive despite their circumstances. Through advocacy and genuine care, CASA volunteers play a pivotal role in fostering resilience and ensuring every child has the opportunity to reach their full potential.
Read this article to learn more about promoting resilience in children, and check out the Unbelievably Resilient podcast to hear first-hand stories of adults who experienced foster care
(This was the Voices of Hope newsletter, February 2024. Subscribe to receive more.)
