Michigan CASA is proud to announce the opening of CASA of Calhoun County, its new Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program.
CASA of Calhoun County is the newest member of the Michigan Court-Appointed Special Advocate program, a statewide network serving 30 counties that recruit, train, and support volunteers who advocate for the best interest of children who have been abused or neglected. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to provide a voice for children who are in the foster care system or whose families are at risk of court involvement. They work to ensure children receive the necessary services and support to help them thrive and find a safe, permanent home.
CASA of Calhoun County will recruit and train volunteers from the local community to serve as advocates for these vulnerable children. The program will work in collaboration with local child welfare agencies, attorneys, and judges to ensure that the children’s needs are met and their voices are heard. Individuals interested in volunteering can learn more at casacc.org.
“We are thrilled to bring CASA to Calhoun County. Our goal is to provide a voice for every child in care who needs one. With the support of dedicated volunteers from our community, we can help these children navigate the complex child welfare system and ensure that they receive the services and support they need to thrive,” says Robert Miller, Executive Director of the new program.
National studies have shown that a child with a CASA volunteer:
- is more likely to do well in school, less likely to be expelled and have better conduct;
- will spend less time in foster care;
- is less likely to re-enter foster care;
- and is more likely to find a safe, permanent home.
The opening of CASA of Calhoun County is an exciting development for our community. By providing a voice for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, we can help ensure that they receive the care and support they need to thrive. We are grateful for the support of our partners and volunteers who will make this program a success.
For more information on how to partner or volunteer, please visit casacc.org.
About Robbie Miller, Executive Director of CASA at Calhoun County
Robbie Miller is a nonprofit leader, educator, and advocate with a Master of Public Administration and a passion for community-driven change. He is a former college educator and has founded an international nonprofit organization focused on empowering communities through collaboration and local advocacy. Robbie believes strongly in the power of relationships and shared leadership to create meaningful, lasting impact. When not working, they enjoy collaborating with new partners, spending time with their spouse, and hanging out with their dog. He can be reached at robert@casacc.org.
About Michigan CASA
Michigan CASA is the statewide association for 30 local CASA programs. They work to connect each part of the CASA community and empower the local programs to perform at their highest level. At the local level, the programs recruit, train and supervise Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers to advocate for children involved in the child welfare system and improve their well-being. At the state level Michigan CASA provides financial support, training and services to help the local programs operate in the most effective way possible to be able to provide best interest advocacy to the children of our state.