As we come to the end of our 30th year of advocacy here in Central Texas, change is happening across the state.  This month, a U.S. District Judge ruled that the State of Texas has violated the constitutional rights of foster children.

     "Years of abuse, neglect and shuttling between inappropriate placements across the state has created a population that cannot contribute to society, and proves a continued strain on the government through welfare, incarceration or otherwise," U.S. District Judge Janis Jack of Corpus Christi wrote in her decision.

     Read the full article from the Texas Tribune here.

     While it is a great step to recognize that the system needs to be improved, this decision can be appealed, and any final reforms will take time to be implemented. As we watch what will be done, CASA will continue to provide trained advocates for children in care.

     We at CASA have always believed that children who have been removed from their homes because of abuse and neglect need additional support while in the State's care. That is why we work to provide trained volunteers whose only role is to advocate for the child's best interests both in the courtroom and in the community, but more volunteers and support are needed.

    CASA tainings for 2016 are set. The first ones start in January. You can find times and locations here.

    A great place to start if you would like to learn more about CASA is to attend one of our Voices Tours information sessions. We have six scheduled in January and more throughout the year.

    You can stay up to date with us and follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for an easy way to pass on information to your friends.

     CASA also needs to increase capacity to support more volunteers and children. You can make a financial contribution to our program here.

     And as always, please help us get the word out about the role of the CASA volunteer and the need for more volunteers and support. I am confident there are enough caring people in our community to provide a CASA volunteer for every child in care, they just don't know about us yet!