About Us
HOW IT WORKS
The CASA Model
CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for children’s best interests and remain involved with each case until it is resolved—either when the child is placed in a safe, permanent home or when they “age out” of foster care. We serve children from birth through age 18, working closely with legal and child welfare professionals, educators, healthcare providers, foster parents, and service providers to ensure judges have all the necessary information to make well-informed decisions for each child.
Our advocacy is guided by the principle that children grow and develop best with their family of origin, whenever it is safe to do so. While most of the children we serve are in foster care, many are working towards reunification with their families. Ultimately, our goal is to support children in achieving the stability and permanency they deserve.
WHAT WE DO
The Role of Michigan CASA
Michigan CASA identifies, disperses, and manages federal and state funds, helping local CASA programs effectively utilize these resources to achieve their missions while ensuring compliance with CASA Standards, court mandates, and state and federal laws. Michigan CASA also leads statewide awareness campaigns to inspire people to become Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in the foster care system. It provides vital education and resources, including programming on anti-child trafficking, trauma-informed care, and volunteer recruitment. Additionally, Michigan CASA offers innovative training and support for local program leadership, collaborates with state agencies and policymakers to improve outcomes for children, and provides technical assistance, crisis communication, and fundraising support to enhance local programs’ advocacy efforts.
Mission Statement
Why We Exist.
Michigan CASA, Inc. is dedicated to changing the lives of abused and neglected children by advocating for their best interests through establishing, supporting, and expanding quality CASA programs throughout the state of Michigan to ensure every child that needs a volunteer, has one.
Vision Statement
What we would look like if we achieved our mission.
Michigan Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is dedicated to ending the cycle of child abuse and neglect, one child at a time.
Michigan CASA Values
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We value every child’s right to be safe
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We value diversity, equity and inclusion
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We value honesty, integrity, and transparency
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We value accountability and commitment
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We value advocacy, service, and collaboration
