Henrico CASA welcomes 12 new volunteer advocates

Henrico CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) welcomed 12 new CASAs to its ranks May 29 during a swearing-in ceremony. The volunteers will join nearly 100 others who are already serving children impacted by abuse or neglect.

The new volunteers have been equipped by Henrico CASA, a nonprofit organization, to help children involved in the court, foster care, and child welfare systems.

They build trusted relationships with each child, gather critical information,
and provide informed recommendations to help Henrico County judges make decisions that uplift the child’s best interests.

While not all children served by Henrico CASA are living in foster care, the organization does work with many children who are navigating the child welfare system. Last year, 24% of children served were under the custody of the Henrico Department of Social Services, living in foster care.

Since 1994, Henrico CASA has served 4,429 children in the Henrico Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court.

The children often face uncertainty, frequent changes in living arrangements, and complex family situations. During May, nationally recognized as Foster Care Awareness Month, Henrico CASA works to spotlight the critical role advocates play in providing stability, trusted relationships, and a voice in court.

“Foster Care Awareness Month allows us to reflect on the challenges children face during times of change and uncertainty,” said Henrico CASA Executive Director Jeannine Panzera. “They need to know someone is standing by their side, and that’s exactly what our Advocates do.”

Members of the community who are interested in becoming CASA advocates may register for a July 23 virtual information session (scheduled at 7 p.m.) by registering here.

For details, visit henricocasa.org.