Jill Carter: CASA volunteers helping foster children

(From Sen. Jill Carter, R-Granby)

Imagine every child having a champion—someone who sees their potential, fights for their stability, and helps them believe in their brighter future. In Missouri’s foster care system, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are making that difference every single day.

The numbers tell an inspiring story of hope. Children with a CASA volunteer are 1.5 to 2 times more likely to graduate high school than those without one. They are more likely to stay in the same school, avoid falling behind academically, and pursue college or vocational training. While children in foster care overall graduate at 50–60 percent—compared to 85–90 percent in the general population—CASA volunteers help close that gap by tracking attendance and grades, advocating for school stability, pushing for tutoring, testing, and needed services, and ensuring the child’s own voice is heard loud and clear in court.

The impact goes far beyond the classroom. On average, children with a CASA spend four months less in foster care. Re-entry rates drop dramatically—to less than 1 percent for CASA-supported children, compared to 17 percent statewide. These advocates help build safer, more permanent homes while saving Missouri taxpayers more than $20,000 per child per year. CASA children are also more likely to receive the services they need and thrive once they leave the system.

Across Missouri, the CASA movement is growing hearts and changing lives. In 2025, 1,792 dedicated volunteers contributed over 100,531 hours statewide, supporting thousands of children. Twenty-four CASA programs now operate in 28 of Missouri’s 46 judicial circuits. In 2023, more than 2,000 volunteers helped over 4,600 children—yet more than 12,000 still waited for an advocate. The opportunity to do more is clear and exciting.

Right here in Newton and McDonald counties, New-Mac CASA is a beacon of community compassion. With 19 volunteers currently serving 73 children (and 102 served so far in 2025), the program embodies the original CASA vision. In 1977, a Seattle judge realized he needed better information to protect abused and neglected children. He asked ordinary citizens to step up—and they did. Today, New-Mac CASA’s volunteers research needs, speak in court, and advocate tirelessly for safe, permanent homes in the 40th Circuit. Their work proves that local heroes can transform young lives.

Imagine the ripple effect: a child who stays in one school builds lasting friendships and confidence. A teenager who gets tutoring discovers a love for learning and eyes a future in college or trade school. A family finds stability and avoids the heartbreak of re-entry into care. These are not abstract statistics—they are real Missouri kids gaining hope, resilience, and opportunity.

You can be part of this inspiring movement. A few hours a month as a CASA volunteer can change a child’s entire trajectory. Your donation can bring an advocate to one more child in need.

As part of New-Mac CASA, children in foster care are waiting for someone who believes in them. CASA volunteers are showing us what’s possible when caring adults step forward. Together, we can give more kids the stability, support, and voice they deserve. One advocate at a time, we are building brighter futures.

If you’ve ever wanted to make a meaningful difference, here is one amazing opportunity. Ellen and her team are phenomenal and would love to have you join them in loving on and advocating for these amazing kids.