Our Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program upholds the fundamental belief that all children deserve a safe and nurturing home environment. Serving youth in foster care or at risk of placement, CASA volunteer advocates undergo specialized training in order to monitor and report on physical health, behavioral health, and educational needs of youth in the child welfare system and are appointed by a Family Court Judge.

The primary goal of CASA is to secure a safe and loving home for every child they serve. Exclusively dedicated to understanding and advocating for the child’s welfare, these volunteers provide critical recommendations to the court based on their deep knowledge of each child’s circumstances. Often the most consistent adult presence in a child’s life, our CASA volunteer advocates remain committed until a sense of permanency – whether through reunification with family or adoption – is achieved.

Behind the success of Greater Mental Health of New York’s CASA program is a team of passionate and trained advocates. Our CASA volunteer advocates commit to a minimum of one year of service, undergoing extensive background checks and completing a comprehensive 30-hour training. These individuals dedicate their time and efforts to ensuring the well-being of children in the child welfare system, with most of the work occurring Monday through Friday during regular business hours.