First Judicial District CASA Association Fund

Goal: $5,000.00

Specific Need

The biggest need of the First Judicial District CASA Association is people—committed individuals and community partners who are willing to stand up for the best interests of vulnerable children. We urgently need volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs)—everyday heroes who are trained to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Each CASA volunteer plays a critical role in ensuring a child’s voice is heard in court and that their needs are met during an uncertain and often traumatic time in their lives. We also need volunteers to serve on our Board of Directors— engaged leaders who can lend their time, talents, and perspectives to strengthen the vision, governance, and sustainability of our organization. In addition, we seek to grow our network of community partners, funders, and supporters—those who believe in our mission to protect children today for stronger families tomorrow. Whether it’s through a financial gift, an in-kind donation, or helping to raise awareness, each contribution helps expand our capacity to serve. Most importantly, we need everyday advocates—people willing to share our mission, invite others into our work, and champion the cause of children who cannot speak up for themselves. Together, we can ensure that every child we serve has a dedicated advocate, a safe environment, and a brighter future. The need is great—but so is the power of a community united for children.
 

Mission

The mission of the First Judicial District CASA Association is “to protect children today for stronger families tomorrow.” This mission guides all aspects of our work as we serve vulnerable children and families in Atchison and Leavenworth Counties. Through our three core programs—the CASA Program, the Child Exchange and Visitation Center (CEVC), and the Child Advocacy Center (CAC)—we work to ensure child safety, provide trauma-informed services, and support pathways to healing and stability. By advocating for children in the court system, providing a safe environment for supervised visitation and custody exchanges, and coordinating a compassionate, multidisciplinary response to child abuse, we aim to break cycles of trauma and empower families toward long-term well-being. Our comprehensive approach reflects our commitment to building a community where every child is safe, heard, and supported.

Profile

The First Judicial District CASA Association is dedicated to protecting and supporting children and families affected by abuse, neglect, or family conflict in Atchison and Leavenworth Counties. Through a continuum of child-centered services, we operate three core programs that work collaboratively to promote safety, healing, and justice: Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program Our CASA program recruits, trains, and supervises community volunteers who serve as court-appointed advocates for children in the foster care system due to abuse or neglect. CASA volunteers provide consistent, compassionate advocacy by gathering information, making recommendations to the court, and ensuring each child’s needs are heard and met. Their work helps move cases toward safe and permanent outcomes while amplifying the child’s voice in the judicial process. Child Exchange and Visitation Center (CEVC) The CEVC offers a safe, neutral, and structured environment for supervised visitation and monitored custody exchanges for families experiencing domestic violence, high-conflict separation, or other safety concerns. The center’s trained staff help reduce trauma and prevent conflict by facilitating visits and exchanges in a child-focused, supportive setting that ensures the safety of all participants. Child Advocacy Center (CAC) Serving both Atchison and Leavenworth counties, our CAC provides a coordinated, multidisciplinary response to allegations of child abuse. The center offers forensic interviews, family advocacy, referrals for medical and mental health services, and case coordination with law enforcement, child protection, prosecution, and mental health professionals. This traumainformed approach reduces the number of times a child must recount their experiences and supports the investigation, treatment, and healing process for the child and their family. Together, these programs reflect our commitment to a holistic approach to child welfare—ensuring that children are safe, their voices are heard, and families receive the support needed for long-term stability.