As we reflect on the importance of Father’s Day, we take a moment to honor the incredible impact Dads, father figures, and male role models have in the lives of children. We see the many ways men show up: as CASAs, mentors, coaches, and steadfast supporters. Their presence sends a message that every child is worthy of guidance, protection, and unconditional care.
We are eternally grateful!
In The Spotlight – A Steady Voice. A Strong Role Model. A CASA Volunteer.
Every child living in foster care deserves someone who sees their potential and stands beside them. Too often that is missing from their life. Children need a steady, trustworthy adult who shows up and stays. For many youth, especially boys, the presence of a positive male role model can be life-changing. They need to see examples of men who listen, guide and uplift—men who model respect, accountability, and care.
Yet today, men remain significantly underrepresented among CASA volunteers, despite the profound impact they can have. (Nationally, less than 20% of CASA volunteers are men.)
Jeff, a dedicated CASA volunteer, shares, “For me, nothing is more profound—and ultimately rewarding—than guiding, helping, and advocating for a child. If you want to have a positive impact, a sense of purpose and meaningfulness, and become part of something bigger than yourself, being a CASA may be exactly what you’re looking for.”
Youth in foster care need men who are willing to stand up, speak out, and stay committed. CASA volunteers don’t just improve outcomes—they change lives. Are you ready to be the difference? Take the first step toward becoming a CASA volunteer today.
My CASA Journey – Men Matter
Men who have chosen to become Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers range in age from their early twenties to over sixty. They are making time (and a profound difference) for youth in foster care through engaging activities and finding the resources needed. Trust builds while sharing hot dogs at a baseball game or seeing their favorite movie for the second time.
This past spring, CASAs and their youth filled out brackets together during March Madness, pumped up a new basketball and shot hoops at the park. Others ensured those worn out slides were replaced with new tennis shoes and picked up extra school supplies. These men made sure there was time to talk while eating tacos, and quiet grace while hiking the desert.
Rather than just survive, these CASA volunteers find ways to help youth thrive while living in foster care AND provide a positive male companionship that may be missing from their life.
(Pictured: This new male CASA volunteer and his pet fox (on left) joined his teen in VOICES Lego Challenge building – what else – a Fox House! )
Community Voice – Reunification to Unification
June is National Family Unification Month. This movement is sponsored by the American Bar Association and celebrates families who have been involved with the Department of Child Safety and achieved permanency through family reunification. The name change from ‘Reunification’ to ‘Unification’ reflects the full spectrum of the family journey from prevention to reunification to unification and long-term healing.
In Arizona, Governor Hobbs proclaimed Family Unification month statewide and included a call to action:
“WHEREAS, family reunification should be celebrated in Arizona at the time of case dismissal and communities should embrace and support these families who have successfully overcome challenges and give them the unbiased opportunity to thrive within their home and throughout their community.”
In Maricopa County, a celebration for unified families will be held on June 29th at SkyZone. Families who have been reunified are invited. If you know of a family that should be included, please share this information with them. The Maricopa County Family Reunification website offers an opportunity to not only register for the event, but to be connected to resources.
VOICES has been a sponsor since 2014 and we are proud of this on-going collaboration with child welfare and family focused organizations.
Learn More / Family Registration
Strengthening Advocacy Through Education – Fathers Matter
Father involvement is a powerful protective factor for children. Did you know that children with involved fathers are 70% less likely to drop out of school and more likely to form healthy relationships, regulate emotions, and succeed long term? This impact holds true for both biological and foster fathers, whose presence can offer stability and healing for children navigating uncertainty.
Despite this, fathers in the child welfare system are too often under-identified, excluded from key decisions, or lack access to the parenting support they need. Programs like the Family Involvement Center’s Fathers Program are helping to fill that gap by equipping dads with tools, connection, and confidence to be there for their kids.
CASA volunteers can also play a critical role by encouraging father inclusion in case planning and advocating for approaches that honor the importance of fatherhood in a child’s life. Whether working toward reunification or serving as a foster caregiver, fathers deserve opportunities to grow, connect, and be present for their children.
Tune into this episode of the Fostering Voices podcast featuring foster dad and advocate Peter Mutabazi, also known as Foster Dad Flipper!
(This was the Voices of Hope, June 2025 newsletter. Subscribe to receive more.)
