Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for Douglas County

Mission: To train, empower, and inspire Volunteer Advocates to improve the lives of children who have been abused or neglected.

CASA was established in the Omaha area in 1998 at the urging of area judges. The idea of CASA first originated in the Seattle area, when a juvenile court judge felt that he was not sufficiently informed about a case involving a child. CASA was created under the premise that there must be an advocate for children within the court system–someone who will ensure the child’s best interests are kept at the forefront. Children impacted by the child welfare system are constantly faced with change and instability.

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to amplify the voice of these children in court and in the community. The desired result is that children be placed in safe, loving homes where they can thrive. Court Appointed Special Advocate programs provide an innovative, cost-effective approach to a very urgent crisis.