California Court Appointed Special Advocate Association

Founded in 1987, CalCASA’s mission is to ensure children in the foster care system have both a voice and the services they need for a stable future. CalCASA achieves this mission by strengthening California’s network of local CASA programs:

o As a capacity builder: supporting CASA programs through legal, operational and programmatic technical assistance; developing quality training, curriculum and resources; identifying best practices to share and replicate; and evaluating CASA program compliance and ensuring alignment with state and national standards and legislation.

o As an advocate: advocating at the state and national level for progressive policies, practices, and resources that improve the lives of children, youth and young adults in the dependency system.

o As an alliance builder: identifying and pursuing valuable strategic alliances that leverage and/or expand resources for children in foster care state-wide.

o As an influence builder: amplifying the communications of the CalCASA network members; serving as a spokesperson for the network and advancing CASA awareness and branding.