PHOENIX — Every child deserves a voice. This May, CASA of Arizona is calling on Arizonans to step forward and be that voice in recognition of Foster Care Awareness Month.

One consistent, caring adult can change the trajectory of a child’s life. There is an urgent need for dedicated volunteers to advocate for children navigating the foster care system. In Arizona, approximately 7,000 children are currently in foster care—a situation that can expose them to uncertainty, new environments, and difficult life transitions. These changes can be traumatic without a consistent adult solely focused on their best interests.

“Volunteers provide stability and a sense of connection during some of the most difficult moments in a child’s life,” said Charles Gray, CASA of Arizona Program Manager. “Their advocacy helps ensure each child is seen, heard, and supported.”

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers play a critical role by ensuring a child’s needs, well-being, and future remain at the center of every decision made in court. Paired with a child in foster care, these volunteers build meaningful relationships, gathering information from all parties involved to make informed recommendations for the court. Their insights assist judges in determining the best path forward with the goal of establishing safe, stable, and permanent homes.

No prior experience is necessary to become a CASA volunteer. Anyone aged 21 or older who can pass a thorough background check and complete the required training is encouraged to apply or contact their local county programs for more information. There is also an opportunity to volunteer with the Foster Care Review Board (FCRB), which has similar requirements. Volunteers serve on community-based panels that meet online monthly to review cases, assess progress, and make recommendations in the best interest of the child.

Another way to make a difference is by opening your home and becoming a foster parent—a remarkable opportunity to provide care and support to a child in need of a stable home environment.

Learn More

To learn more about becoming a CASA volunteer, visit www.AZCASAVolunteer.org.
To learn more about becoming an FCRB volunteer, visit www.azfcrb.org.
To learn more about becoming a foster parent, visit dcs.az.gov/foster/learnmore.

About CASA of Arizona and the Foster Care Review Board

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Arizona and the Foster Care Review Board (FCRB) operate in all 15 counties throughout Arizona. Both programs recruit and train volunteers year-round to advocate for children in the state’s foster care system and are administered by the Arizona Supreme Court.