Shining a Light on Foster Care: My Role as a CASA and Theta

I began CASA training the day after my 21st birthday and was sworn in a few months later. Though relatively new to directly working with the organization, it was the reason Theta stood out to me in the recruitment process.

As a sophomore, I served on the Theta Nu/Georgia Tech executive board as vice president external affairs (VPEA) to support the philanthropy director in organizing events raising over $15,000 for CASA.

I have always found our philanthropy unique because it brings light to the foster care system which is often forgotten. I can only speak to Cobb County, GA, but my experience as a court-appointed special advocate (CASA) has been overwhelmingly positive. The emotional intensity of cases can be upsetting, but the coordinators undergo a rigorous training process on how to find personal balance and carry out the responsibilities of a CASA to the best of their abilities.

Biases exist everywhere and can be exacerbated in the interpretation of our state and federal laws. Because of competing interests, it is not uncommon for the focus to shift away from the child for whom the system is intending to help. Juvenile courts are frequently overwhelmed, and CASAs work as a liaison to communicate the child’s needs, providing an invaluable perspective.

The best way to have an impact is through awareness and advocacy. Through this process, I was surprised by those around me who have shared their own experiences with child abuse, foster care, or having CASAs of their own. Whether through fundraising or volunteering, every member of Kappa Alpha Theta contributes to supporting children in foster care in some way. My experience has allowed me to reflect on why Theta’s involvement in CASA is so impactful in ways I had not seen before, and I encourage everyone with the time to volunteer.

Do you have a CASA/GAL story to share? Contact us at marketing@kappaalphatheta.org.