Brightside Child & Family Advocacy, a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to safeguarding the well-being of vulnerable children, is issuing a heartfelt appeal to the community as volunteerism reaches a critical low. We are urgently seeking compassionate individuals to step forward and become Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) for children in need. 

According to a recent survey by the U.S. Census Bureau and AmeriCorps, formal volunteering dropped by seven percentage points, from 30 percent in 2019 to 23.2 percent in 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic. That's the most significant decline since the survey began in 2002. In Georgia, the rate is even lower at 19.9 percent. However, the need for CASA volunteers has not decreased. Since January 1^st, 31 children entered foster care in Chatham County, yet only 17 new volunteers have been recruited and trained – compared to our organization's average mid-year rate of 30 volunteers. 

The decline in volunteerism poses a significant challenge to ensuring that each child receives the support and care they deserve. CASA volunteers play an indispensable role in advocating for the best interests of these children, serving as their voices in court and providing critical guidance throughout their journey.

Why is volunteering as a CASA advocate crucial?

1. Unwavering Support: CASA advocates offer unwavering support to children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or other traumatic events, helping them navigate complex legal and child welfare systems.

2. Stability and Consistency: Amidst a world of uncertainty, CASA volunteers provide stability and consistency to children who may have faced multiple placements, ensuring their well-being remains at the forefront.

3. Lifelong Impact: By volunteering as a CASA advocate, you have the opportunity to make a lifelong impact on a child's life, providing them with hope, encouragement, and a positive role model.

4. Empowerment: CASA volunteers empower children by amplifying their voices, advocating for their needs, and ensuring their rights are protected at every step of the process.

5. Community Resilience: By volunteering with Brightside Advvocacy’s Savannah CASA program, you contribute to the resilience and strength of our community, fostering a culture that prioritizes the well-being of its most vulnerable members.

Who can become a CASA advocate?

We welcome individuals from diverse backgrounds and walks of life to consider becoming CASA advocates. No prior experience in child advocacy is necessary. We encourage individuals who possess the following qualities to step up and make a difference:

• Compassion and Empathy: Individuals with a deep concern for the welfare of children and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in their lives.

• Commitment and Dedication: Those who can commit to spending an average of 10-15 hours per month on their CASA duties, ensuring consistent support for the children they serve.

• Effective Communicators: Strong communicators who can actively listen, express themselves clearly, and collaborate with professionals and community partners.

How to get involved?

In this crucial time, we call upon community members to stand together and become CASA advocates for a child in need. Your dedication can make an immeasurable difference in their lives. To learn more about the role and access the application form, please visit our website at brightsideadvocacy.org/volunteer or call 912-447-8908. By joining forces, we can ensure that no child is left without a caring adult during these challenging times.