CASA receives national certification

Louisiana CASA (LACASA) has been awarded certification by the National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association.  The certification recognizes that LACASA meets National CASA’s high standards for program operations and management. 

According to Michael Piraino, CEO of the National CASA Association, “The National CASA quality assurance process is very rigorous, and reflects our commitment to ensure every child we serve has the most powerful volunteer advocate working on their behalf.  This certification says Louisiana CASA has demonstrated a strong capacity to support the work of CASA programs in Louisiana in advocating for abused and neglected children within the state.”

LACASA, which began in 1994, supports local programs in serving children in foster care. In 2011 alone, nearly 2,000 volunteers served over 3,800 abused and neglected children.  CASA volunteers positively impact the lives of children in foster care as trained advocates who provide strong voices on behalf abused and neglected children in the state’s care.

Thousands of children enter Louisiana’s foster care system each year.  A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer works to ensure that abused and neglected children in the Louisiana legal system have a voice in court speaking up on behalf of the their best interest. 

Dr. John Wyble, executive director of Louisiana CASA stated that this distinction helps to ensure the quality of advocacy provided by CASA in Louisiana.   “This distinction is not only an honor for our organization but demonstrates to communities and leaders all over Louisiana that we take our work seriously.   This process helps to ensure children served by CASA receive quality advocacy focused on their safety, permanency, and well-being.”