As Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month comes to an end, I am reminded of the saying "it takes a village to raise a child."  In the fight against child abuse, we must all join together.

     In 2014, there were 1,240 children in the CASA of Central Texas four-county service area (Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe and Hays) that were confirmed victims of abuse and neglect. These children are the true definition of the word victim. Through no fault of their own, their lives have been turned upside down. Even the ones who are fortunate enough to have had their abuse reported still face the turbulent waters of foster homes, court appearances and separation from their family and all that is familiar.

     CASA's passionate and dedicated advocates are working with these children to ensure they receive the attention and help they need, but one organization can not tackle the issue alone.  It takes the whole community.

     We thank all of our local communities and partner agencies who recognize that child abuse and neglect is a real concern and needs local action.  We deeply appreciate the individuals and the community leaders who proclaimed April as Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, announcing they are committed to this fight.

Fostering Futures 

     In 2014, CASA of Central Texas was awarded a Fostering Futures grant which aims to help CASA volunteers guide older youth to successfully transition out of foster care into independent living as young adults. With funding from National CASA, volunteers undergo extra training online and in person to be able to work effectively with youth ages 14-21.

     "It is a really interesting training.  Definitely eye-opening and things I had just never thought about before. Anyone who is going to be a CASA for older teens really should take this training."  - CASA of Central Texas Advocate Robbie Hawkins.

     If you are interested in accessing to this online training please email Volunteer Coordinator Samantha Mundine. This training counts for 3 hours of Continuing Education credit.

     Lonnette was working for the Department of Family and Protective Services in Austin as a conservatorship caseworker when she was first introduced to CASA volunteers.

     "CASA volunteers were my saving grace. One of the CASA's flew with me to Chicago to place a 9 and 11 year old with relatives. I was so impressed that this person traveled with these children to help them feel comfortable and safe and meet their new family in person. I will never forget the volunteer or those children. I would recognize them today."

     "When I introduce myself to our volunteer training classes I always start by expressing the admiration I have for them. "Volunteer" does not come close to encompassing the deep passion and commitment of our advocates. They are incredible people." 

     "Truly, the advocates, my leader and co-workers have kept me here for so long. Child abuse and advocacy will be a lifetime cause for me but this team has kept me at CASA of Central Texas. We are all here for one another when days in court don't go so well."

     "We need advocates more than ever. Not to be cliche', but times are changing and I have seen the changes first hand over the last 20 years. There's more stress for families which unfortunately leads to more substance abuse, mental health issues, child abuse and neglect."

     "Being a CASA may not be an easy commitment but it will be the most rewarding!"