Child Advocates San Antonio recruits, develops, and leads volunteers to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children in foster care. CASA is part of a nationwide organization of Court Appointed Special Advocates with more than 900 local chapters in 49 states, and 97,000 volunteers, helping 234,000 children find a safe and permanent home last year. Locally, CASA was established by the San Antonio chapter of the National Council of Jewish Women in 1984 and has now been serving the children of Bexar County for 40 years.

A Child Advocate is appointed by a judge to be an independent voice in court for an abused and/or neglected child.

No, we use both terms to describe our Advocates since they are volunteering their time and dedication to the CASA mission.

The Advocate provides the judge with a carefully researched background of the child to help the court make a sound decision about the child's future. The Advocate must determine if it is in the best interest of the child to live with the parent(s) or legal guardian, remain in foster care, or be freed for permanent adoption. The Advocate makes a recommendation about placement to the court, and follows through until the case is permanently resolved. Advocates work closely with, but independent of, Child Protective Services (CPS) and attorneys.

The role of the Advocate is:

• To be a fact-finder for the judge.
• To speak for the child in court, representing the child's best interest.
• To continue to act as a 'watchdog' for the child during the life of the case, ensuring that the child's needs are met and the case is resolved swiftly and appropriately.

• Minimum 12 month commitment, the average length of a case
• Complete new volunteer training
• Visit child/children at least once per month (An average of 15 hours per month)
• Maintain confidentiality

• Be at least 21-years-old
• Have a valid Texas driver's license
• Have access to a vehicle and proof of insurance
• Complete criminal and CPS background checks

*No previous experience or education is required. All training and support provided.

You can attend our next Info Session event or call anytime at 210-225-7070.