Join the Board of CASA of Rochester/Monroe County and Help Us Change the Path of a Child’s Life

Every year, children in our community enter the family court system after experiencing abuse or neglect, often feeling frightened, overwhelmed, and alone. The process is long and complex, filled with unfamiliar faces and difficult decisions that shape a child’s future. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) exists to ensure no child walks that journey without a dedicated champion by their side. As part of a respected national and state network, CASA of Rochester/Monroe County trains and supervises quality, committed volunteers who advocate in family court for the best interests of children who have been or are at risk of being removed from their home of origin. Our goal is simple but profound: to help every child thrive in a safe, permanent home.

Why Our Work Matters: When a child enters into the family court system, they may wait 18–24 months (or longer) for a judge to determine the best permanent placement for them, whether that’s returning home, living with relatives, or being adopted. During that time, children face uncertainty and emotional strain. A CASA volunteer becomes their steady, supportive presence. CASAs visit children monthly – at school, in foster homes, and during family visits – to understand their needs, monitor their well-being, and provide a voice for them in the courtroom. Their firsthand insights help Judges make informed, child-centered decisions.

CASA volunteers undergo intensive training in understanding trauma, child development, and the complexities of the family court system. The work is challenging, meaningful, and life-changing – not only for the child, but for the volunteer as well.

Why We Need You: Our Board members are essential partners in this mission. As a Board leader, you will help strengthen and expand our capacity to serve more children across Rochester and Monroe County – children who urgently need a consistent adult advocating for their safety, stability, and future.

By joining our Board, you will: (1) Champion a cause that directly changes the trajectory of young lives; (2) Provide strategic guidance to grow our volunteer base and impact; (3) Help raise awareness and resources to meet the unmet needs in our community; (4) Support a proven model that empowers trained advocates to make a measurable difference.

Your Expertise Can Help a Child Find Home: CASA of Rochester/Monroe County is one of 14 programs serving 32 counties in New York State, and our demand continues to grow. Board members with diverse skills like leadership, finance, legal, communications, fundraising, nonprofit management, and community engagement, play a vital role in ensuring we can reach every child who needs a trusted advocate.

If you believe every child deserves safety, stability, and a chance to thrive, we invite you to consider bringing your talents to our Board. Together, we can make sure no child in our community faces the family court system alone.