Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)

Youth Heartline is the CASA program for the 8th Judicial District of New Mexico. CASA began in 1977 when a Seattle juvenile court judge concerned about making drastic decisions with insufficient information conceived the idea of volunteers in the courtroom speaking up for the best interests of children who had experienced neglect or abuse. Children in foster care who have a CASA volunteer are more likely to succeed in school and adjust to change. They are half as likely to re-enter the foster care system later. As a volunteer, you can make all the difference for a child who has experienced abuse or neglect in your community.

As a CASA volunteer you will:​

• Complete a 30 hour online, guided training
• Help foster children navigate the court system
• Advocate for the best interests of foster children
• Play an essential role in a foster child's life
• Supported in their role by Youth Heartline staff

Watch our video to learn more: The Role of a CASA Volunteer