CASA of North Mississippi: Advocating for Abused and Neglected Children

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of North Mississippi works to ensure the safety and well-being of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Through the efforts of trained, court-appointed volunteers, CASA ensures that these children have a voice in court and are placed in safe, permanent homes.

CASA’s mission is to train volunteers to advocate for children in court, protect their rights, and secure the best possible outcomes for their futures. As a vital part of the Lafayette-Oxford-University (LOU) community, CASA provides children in foster care with a dedicated advocate throughout their journey in the child welfare system. The organization is committed to high-quality volunteer advocacy, strong community collaboration, and compassionate service.

To prepare volunteers, CASA offers a 30-hour pre-service training program. Volunteers are then sworn in by a youth court judge and are appointed to represent a child in court. They work closely with professionals from youth courts, the Guardian Ad Litem program, and the Department of Human Services to ensure the child’s well-being. Volunteers attend court hearings, school meetings, doctor’s appointments, and visits with biological parents, while also addressing other essential needs such as therapy, clothing, and extracurricular activities.

Since becoming a nonprofit in 2018, CASA has made significant strides but is now facing critical needs for both financial support and volunteer advocates. While grants have helped in the past, the organization increasingly relies on donations from local businesses and individuals. CASA is looking for empathetic, reliable volunteers who are committed to protecting vulnerable children. Volunteers must complete an extensive screening process, including background checks, interviews, and reference checks, as well as a 30-hour training program.

“Our volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization,” says CASA Director Erin Smith. “Their dedication and tireless advocacy make a difference in the lives of vulnerable children. But we can’t do this work alone—donations are crucial in ensuring our volunteers have the resources they need to continue their exceptional work.”

How You Can Help:

  1. Donate: Visit CASAofNorthMississippi.com to donate and support CASA’s mission.
  2. Volunteer: To become a CASA volunteer, call 662-638-8900 or email info@casaofnorthmississippi.com.

By donating or volunteering, you can help ensure every child in foster care has a strong, caring advocate fighting for their safety and future.