The Wisconsin CASA Association has announced CASA for Kids in the Coulee Region of Western Wisconsin is now an independent organization awaiting formal 501(c)(3) approval.
“We’ve worked under the umbrella of the local YWCA since we were established in 1999,” stated CASA for Kids Executive Director Anne Gordon. “It’s been a great relationship but, as we’ve grown, we realized we needed to be an independent non-profit organization fully aligned with our state and national CASA programs.” CASA programs champion the needs of abused and neglected children by providing trained volunteers who advocate for a child’s best interests in court. Wisconsin CASA Interim Executive Director Melissa Michel is fully supportive of CASA for Kids move to an independent status, “Originally CASA for Kids was a program established by a steering committee and a La Crosse County judge who saw the need for CASA,” she explained. “It made sense at that point to establish it as a program under a local nonprofit. Through the years, the program grew to also serve Monroe and Vernon counties in addition to La Crosse. With that expanded footprint, it was time to establish CASA for Kids as its own nonprofit.” “There continues to be an incredible need for CASA programs and Advocates in Western Wisconsin, so we’re very excited about the future,” added Gordon. “CASA is so important, and it is vital to the trajectory of a child’s life and well-being. I encourage anyone who truly and deeply cares about children to consider becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA). It’s a life changing experience, not just for the child, but for the Advocate as well.” In 2022, there were roughly 6,000-7,000 children in Wisconsin who qualified for a CASA, however only 950 children were served due to not enough Advocates. Each Wisconsin CASA program is working hard to recruit more volunteer Advocates in order to serve more children. “It’s important for area residents to understand how this program not only benefits Foster Children, but also provides benefits to everyone living in the areas we serve,” Gordon said. National studies have shown that a child with a CASA volunteer: • is more likely to do well in school, less likely to be expelled and have better conduct; • will spend less time in Foster Care; • is less likely to re-enter Foster Care; • and is more likely to find a safe, permanent home. To learn more about CASA for Kids in La Crosse, Monroe and Vernon counties, go to: CASAforKids.org or contact Anne Gordon, Executive Director: (608) 668-1806 or agordon@casaforkids.org
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