The Wisconsin CASA Association and CASA for Kids are pleased to announce CASA for Kids has received 501(c)(3) approval from the IRS, becoming an independent nonprofit organization. CASA for Kids, which serves La Crosse, Monroe, and Vernon counties, was established in 1999 under the YWCA La Crosse.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) for Kids champions the needs of abused and neglected children by providing trained volunteers who advocate for a child’s best interests in court. The Advocate maintains a positive and consistent presence in the child’s life throughout the duration of their case, while providing effective reporting to local judges until safe permanency is achieved.
“We have worked hard towards this goal for over a year now and are looking forward to the future of the organization and the ability to serve more children,” explains Anne Gordon, CASA for Kids Executive Director. “We’d like to extend a thank you to the National CASA Association, Wisconsin CASA Assn., our local judges, our board of directors and Advocates for their continued support of the important work we are trying to accomplish in the communities we serve. We also thank the YWCA La Crosse for over 20 years of guidance and support of our vision.”
“When CASA for Kids was founded, it made sense to establish it under a local nonprofit,” explains Wisconsin CASA Interim Executive Director Melissa Michel. “Through the years, the program grew to 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.”
In 2022, there were between 6,000 and 7,000 children in Wisconsin who qualified for a CASA Advocate, however only 950 children were able to be served. Local CASA programs currently serve 15 of the 72 counties in Wisconsin, with CASA for Kids serving three of those counties with an active waitlist.
National studies show that a child with a CASA:
- reported significantly higher levels of hope which is linked to positive outcomes such as academic success, overall wellbeing, increases in self-control, positive social relationships, and optimism
- will spend less time in out of home placement;
- are less likely to re-enter Foster Care; and
- are more likely to find a safe, permanent home.
“There continues to be an incredible need for CASA volunteers in Western Wisconsin,” added Gordon. “CASA is vital to the trajectory of a child’s long-term well-being, and I encourage anyone who deeply cares about children to consider becoming an Advocate. It’s a life changing experience, not just for the child, but for the Advocate as well.” There are other ways to support the CASA for Kids organization if you are unable to volunteer. You can share the mission and donate through the website or directly to CASA for Kids at 704 Sand Lake Road, Suite 207C, Onalaska, WI 54650.
