Michigan CASA Applauds Signing of House Bill 5429, Strengthening Advocacy for Michigan’s Children
NEWS RELEASE
October 4, 2024
Media Contact: Andrea Walker-Leidy
248-606-5288
LANSING, MI – Michigan Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is thrilled to announce the signing of House Bill 5429, which further establishes the vital “Court-Appointed Special Advocate” program to ensure consistent representation for abused and neglected children across the state.
Michigan CASA is a nonprofit organization committed to establishing and supporting 30 affiliate programs across Michigan. CASA programs recruit, screen, train, and supervise CASA volunteers who ensure the highest level of advocacy for Michigan children.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Governor Whitmer and State Representative Christine Morse (D-Texas Township) for their unwavering dedication to the protection and advocacy of Michigan’s most vulnerable youth,” said Michigan CASA President & CEO, Aimee Nimeh. “This bill is a testament to the work of CASA programs and volunteers across the state. Michigan CASA is committed to ending the cycle of abuse and neglect by ensuring that every child has someone advocating for their best interests.”
House Bill 5429 empowers courts to appoint specially trained community volunteers who serve as advocates for children in the legal system as the result of abuse and neglect. These Court-Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) provide a crucial voice, ensuring that the best interests of children are prioritized in legal proceedings.
“The Court-Appointed Special Advocate program fills an important role in our juvenile justice system,” said Representative Morse. “They ensure vulnerable children have the support they need. CASA volunteers are a powerful voice for Michigan children, advocating for their best interests and helping them navigate difficult and often confusing legal proceedings. I’m proud to see this legislation signed into law to improve outcomes for Michigan’s children and strengthen our commitment to their well-being.”
CASA volunteers are dedicated, trained, and certified members of their communities who play a pivotal role in advocating for the needs and rights of children in the foster care system. “Every child deserves a safe and nurturing environment,” said Nimeh. “This bill encourages the establishment of statewide CASA programs. Because of this support, we are taking significant strides toward ensuring that every child in our care has a consistent advocate who prioritizes their safety, permanence, and well-being.”
Michigan CASA’s Annual State Conference will be held November 3-4 in Bay City bridging together CASA programs, volunteers, and partners from across Michigan, providing a platform to share knowledge and best practices in child welfare advocacy. Attendees will gain insight into Michigan CASA’s mission and efforts to support children who have been abused or neglected. With a focus on collaboration and education, the conference will also highlight CASA programs and how volunteers can impact the lives of vulnerable children throughout the state.
For more information on Michigan CASA, visit michigancasa.org.
About Michigan CASA
Michigan CASA is committed to establishing and supporting a network of well-administered, independent affiliate programs across the state, ensuring mutual accountability and the highest quality of advocacy for all of Michigan’s abused and neglected children. By providing urgent and compassionate support, CASA volunteers help children navigate their complex legal journeys, creating a brighter future for those they serve.
For more information about Michigan CASA and how you can get involved, visit michigancasa.org.