Imagine you’re a 7-year-old in a new foster home full of strangers, uncertain where your parents have gone, and separated from your brothers and sisters. Who can you count on?
This is where CASA comes in. What CASA stands for says it all: Court Appointed Special Advocates. Its volunteers are caring community members designated by juvenile court to support, empower, and speak up for abused, neglected, and at-risk youth within the child welfare system. At this time, 69 trained advocates serve 108 local children through CASA El Dorado, and more volunteers are needed, says Natalie Moore, executive director of the nonprofit organization. “Despite their incredible dedication,” she says, “still, 22 children on our waitlist need a CASA volunteer. Our goal is to bring that number to zero.”
We caught up with Moore to learn more about CASA El Dorado and the children it serves.
What do CASA volunteers do?
CASA advocates serve as a consistent, caring presence for a child. They typically take only one case at a time, which allows them to build a meaningful relationship with the child, understand their unique needs, and make sure their voice is heard. Advocates spend time with their CASA kids weekly, gather important information about their lives, and report back to the judge so informed decisions can be made about the child’s care and future. In many cases, the CASA volunteer is the one constant adult in the child’s life during a very difficult season. Foster youth are often moved from home to home, sometimes attending several different schools in a single year. Many are separated from siblings, losing their most important connections. Amidst this change, a CASA provides stability—a steady voice ensuring the child’s needs are never overlooked.
What sets CASA apart from other child advocacy or foster care support organizations?
What makes it unique is the one-on-one advocacy that each volunteer provides. They don’t replace social workers, attorneys, or foster parents; instead, they complement the work of these professionals by getting to know the child; talking with teachers, caregivers, and service providers; and then bringing that information to the judge. This gives the court a fuller picture of the child’s life.
CASA advocates come without an agenda or bias. Because they are volunteers, their presence carries a powerful message to youth who may feel forgotten or rejected: I am here because I choose to be here for you, not because I have to be. That simple truth can bring comfort and stability. National studies confirm that children with a CASA are more likely to receive critical services, spend less time in foster care, and are far less likely to re-enter the child welfare system.
Can you share a success story?
A youth who went through unspeakable trauma and spent years in institutional care—supported by a CASA advocate for several years—shared: “The CASA program has quite literally made me who I am today. The relationship and rapport I built with my mentor is long-lasting, and I no longer expect this relationship to end once I am out of the program. It is not very often that someone enters your life to genuinely help you out of the hole you’re in, shine light into the darkness, and water the soil where decade-old seeds have been sown. Young people facing adversity need support and community, and someone to look at them, see them for who they are, and say ‘I’m going to be there for you.’ CASA helped me out of my deep, dark hole, and I am so grateful for that.”
What kind of impact does a CASA have on children navigating the foster care system?
An advocate can be life-changing for children in foster care. CASAs act as the “squeaky wheel,” identifying critical needs: safety at home or in placements; family connections; basic necessities like medical or dental care; enrichment opportunities, extracurricular activities, soccer, cheer camp, and other experiences they deserve. CASA provides stability, trust, and emotional support—sometimes for a lifetime. We have a youth whose case ended over six years ago who still maintains a close relationship with their CASA. They recently visited the office, and they continue to spend quality time together, including support during major life transitions like graduating high school and moving to college.
What feedback do you hear most often from the children and families CASA serves?
Children and families frequently express gratitude for having someone who truly listens, shows kindness, and is there for them through a challenging journey. They appreciate that CASA volunteers show up consistently, not just in the courtroom, but on a weekly basis: offering guidance, encouragement, and a steady presence that helps them feel seen and valued. Families often describe their CASA as a trusted adult who genuinely cares, advocates for the child’s needs, and makes a meaningful, lasting difference.
CASA El Dorado prioritizes reunification with parents whenever it is safe, and we are honored to be part of the community that supports families through difficult times, helping children and families navigate the challenges of the child welfare system.
What type of person makes a great CASA volunteer?
The most important thing is having a heart for children. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life: different careers, backgrounds, and experiences. You don’t need any prior training or experience; we will train you! What matters is showing up, caring, and being willing to stand by a child who needs someone in their corner. With your heart and our support, you can make a lasting difference in a child’s life.
Our training program is designed to prepare volunteers thoroughly and give them confidence before they meet a child. It consists of a 30-hour curriculum and a court observation. Half of the training is an online, self-paced course. After that, volunteers attend four interactive sessions with our team. You must be at least 21 years old, successfully complete the training program, and pass an extensive background check. Once these steps are complete, you are sworn in by a judge and can begin reviewing cases. You’ll have the opportunity to choose the case that speaks to your heart, and throughout your entire CASA journey, you are never alone. Each volunteer is paired with a full-time manager who provides guidance and support every step of the way: introductions to the youth, writing court reports, or answering any questions that come up.
What are some of the biggest challenges your organization faces?
One of our biggest is fundraising. As access to government funding decreases, CASA El Dorado relies on community support for around 70% of its budget, compared with around 40% in previous years. Diversifying funding sources is critical. Additionally, we are always working to spread awareness of our mission and the vital role volunteers and community support play in giving children a voice. Despite these challenges, our dedicated team and supporters allow us to serve over 90% of the children in need. El Dorado County powerfully stands behind our work year after year, and we are deeply grateful for the ongoing support that helps us provide consistent, life-changing advocacy for every child we serve. This community is truly our how!
Ways to Support CASA El Dorado
Attend special events such as the Shine Bright Gala on Nov. 15, 2025 at Serrano Country Club.
Participate in CASA’s Holiday Ask Campaign.
Join Empower Monthly Giving—small, recurring donations add up!
Host an information session at your home or business to spread awareness of CASA.
Become a Friend of CASA by helping with events, outreach, and other operational needs.
Join CASA’s Forever Friends program, which directly supports the youth enrichment fund, and helps provide college prep, camps, and other enriching opportunities.
For more information, contact Natalie Moore at natalie@casaeldorado.org or (530) 622-9882, or visit casaeldorado.org.