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CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Collin County was incorporated in 1991 to provide trained community volunteers to advocate in the best interests of abused and neglected children involved in the court system.

Today, CASA of Collin County serves as Guardian ad Litem for all children in foster care in the county.  These volunteers served 750 children in 2007 with 46 percent under the age of 6 years.  More than 20 percent of CASA’s caseload involves physical abuse victims.

The more than 165 volunteers donated in excess of 25,000 hours of volunteer time in 2007, each focusing on the child’s best interest through services, treatment and placement.  These sworn child advocates are given constant support and guidance by professional staff as well as training in child development, communications and cultural competency skills.

The strength of the CASA program lies in providing care and support on a one-to-one basis throughout the court process, allowing the child and volunteer to develop a trusting, nurturing relationship.

Nationwide, the CASA program has evolved into one of the largest volunteer organizations in the country with more than 900 programs in operation, at least one in every state.  In Texas in 2007, 4,928 CASA volunteers advocated for 20,509 children in 202 counties.

CASA of Collin County has 11 staff members and a budget of $800,000.  Income sources include:

·         United Way

·         Victims of Crime Act (VOCA)

·         Crime Victims Compensation (CVC)

·         Other Victim Assistance Grant (OVAG)

·         Private donations and fundraising

·         Assorted grants

·         License Plate Fund (LSP)

CASA of Collin County is governed by a Board of Directors comprised of community members and an Advisory Board including judges, attorneys, mayors and city council members and other interested citizens.

To learn more about CASA programs, please also visit Texas CASA's website.