In 2014 CASA staff set a goal to serve every child in the 5th Judicial District by 2020.

In October of 2019 that goal was met. At our Annual Volunteer Banquet, Judge Ken Coker signed the order to appoint a CASA volunteer to the only remaining foster child without a CASA. 

To this day CASA of the 5th is proud to be serving every foster child in the 5th Judicial District. 

 

The mission of CASA of the 5th Judicial District is to provide abused, neglected and dependent children a voice in the court process in order for these children to find a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible. Our mission is accomplished through community volunteers who are trained to advocate for the best interests of each child.

In 1977, CASA started as an idea by a Juvenile Court Judge David Soukup in Seattle Washington.

CASA of the 5th Judicial District opened its doors in April 2000.

CASA of the 5th Judicial District is a member of the National CASA Association and an active member of the Arkansas CASA Association.

In 1988, CSR, Inc., under contract with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, published the results of a study entitled, National Evaluation of Guardians ad Litem in Child Abuse or Neglect Judicial Proceedings. After analyzing five types of GAL models the study found that:

“CASA volunteers are excellent investigators and mediators, remain involved in the case and fight for what they think is right for the child” The study concluded, “We give the CASA models our highest recommendation.”

In 1990 with the inclusion of the CASA Program in the Victims of Child Abuse Act, Congress affirmed the use of volunteers in our otherwise closed juvenile court systems and made provisions for the growth of our volunteer movement nationwide.