United Way Week is in full swing across Oklahoma, and this year the spotlight shines on Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). As a key partner of United Way, CASA recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who serve as dedicated advocates for children caught up in the state’s child‑welfare system.
What CASA Does for Oklahoma’s Children
CASA volunteers, often called “special advocates,” are appointed by judges to represent the best interests of children who have been removed from unsafe homes. After a thorough screening process, volunteers receive extensive training on the legal, social and emotional aspects of child welfare. They then spend time with each child, visiting homes, schools and medical facilities, and they provide the court with informed recommendations on placement, services and long‑term stability.
The program’s impact is measurable. According to recent state data, children represented by CASA volunteers experience higher rates of reunification with safe families and lower rates of re‑entry into foster care. These outcomes align with United Way’s broader mission to strengthen families and build resilient communities.
State‑Level Support and Expansion
Beyond direct advocacy, CASA operates at the state level to bolster local programs. The organization offers financial grants and additional training resources to smaller county‑based CASA chapters, ensuring that volunteers everywhere in Oklahoma have the tools they need to succeed. This collaborative model helps standardize best practices and expands the reach of child‑advocacy services throughout the state.
United Way’s fundraising campaign for 2026 features CASA as one of its 69 partner agencies. Donations collected during United Way Week will support CASA’s recruitment drives, training curricula, and the technology platforms that enable volunteers to track case progress securely and efficiently.
How Community Members Can Get Involved
Residents who wish to support the cause have several options. First‑time volunteers can attend informational sessions hosted by local CASA chapters, often held at community centers, churches, or schools. Those unable to serve as advocates can still contribute by donating to United Way’s campaign, which earmarks funds for CASA’s operational needs.
Local businesses are also encouraged to partner with CASA, either through sponsorships of training events or by offering in‑kind donations such as office supplies, transportation vouchers, or meeting space. Such partnerships reinforce the community‑first ethos that both United Way and CASA champion.
Looking Ahead
As United Way Week continues, organizers plan a series of awareness events, including a family‑friendly fair at the Oklahoma State Fairgrounds and a virtual town hall where former CASA volunteers share personal stories of impact. These initiatives aim to broaden public understanding of the child‑welfare system and inspire more Oklahomans to step forward as advocates.
By highlighting CASA during United Way Week, Oklahoma demonstrates a commitment to protecting its most vulnerable citizens—its children—and to empowering families with the support they need to thrive.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
