THE REVERE ADVOCATE – FRIDAY, JULY 18, 2025 Page 5 Boston CASA Seeks Volunteers to Advocate for Foster Youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties Virtual information sessions begin July 24 for those interested in joining the fall training cohort B OSTON, Mass. (July 15, 2025) — Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is issuing an urgent call for volunteers to advocate on behalf of children in the foster care system. Currently, only 15% of eligible foster youth in Suff olk and Middlesex Counties have access to a CASA — a trained, courtappointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions. “Foster youth navigate a world of court dates, caseworkers, and constant change — often without a single consistent adult,” said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. “A CASA can be that person. We’re looking for volunteers who are ready to show up, speak up, and stand by a child when it matters most.” With virtual information sessions beginning July 29, Boston CASA encourages compassionate adults across the region to attend an upcoming session to learn how they can make a life-changing diff erence for a child. What CASAs Do Unlike mentors or service providers, CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case. CASAs collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met—advocating for essential services, educational support, healthcare access, and permanent housing. They often become the one consistent adult in a child’s life, helping navigate a complex and ever-changing system. CASAs are asked to commit at least 18 months to the role. Initial training requires 30 hours, with 12 hours of ongoing education each year. Once assigned to a case, volunteers typically dedicate 10 to 15 hours per month to their CASA work. Why It Matters The need is urgent: • Only 50% of foster youth graduate from high school • Fewer than 4% earn a fouryear college degree • Nearly half experience homelessness by age 26 According to a national study, 92% of judges say CASAs improve outcomes for children, and 83% say CASAs help ensure children receive essential services. But when a youth has a CASA, they are more likely to succeed in school, access vital services, and secure a stable, permanent home. Eligibility Requirements • Have a deep desire to make a diff erence in a child’s life • Be 21 years or older • Commit to at least 18 months of service • Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community • Approach diffi cult situations with compassion and diplomacy • Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role Children in foster care come from all backgrounds, and Boston CASA is committed to building a volunteer community that refl ects that diversity. While all are welcome to apply, we’re especially seeking volunteers who speak additional languages, identify as people of color, are men, or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Your lived experience Upcoming Info Sessions Attending an information session is required to apply for the organization’s next volunteer training cycle, which begins in the fall. These sessions will give you an overview of the organization and our work, the application and interview process, as well as more details about the training required to become a CASA. Sessions will be held virtually on Zoom from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. • Thursday July 24th, 2025 • Wednesday August 13th, 2025 Sign up for an upcoming information session HERE https://form.jotform. com/80775907484975. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory. For more information or to register for an info session, visit: https://bostoncasa.org/ About Boston CASA Boston CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties for children removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect, most of whom end up in foster care. Unlike mentors, CASAs work within the child welfare system, advocating directly in court and alongside DCF to ensure children in foster care receive the support, stability, and services they need. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory—help us be that difference. Volunteer, donate, or support our mission at www. bostoncasa.org. #ChangeAChildsStory can make a powerful diff erence in a child’s life. Gerry D’Ambrosio Attorney-at-Law Is Your Estate in Order? Do you have an update Will, Health Care Proxy or Power of Attorney? If Not, Please Call for a Free Consultation. 14 Proctor Avenue, Revere (781) 284-5657 425r Broadway, Saugus Located adjacent to Kohls Plaza Route 1 South in Saugus at the intersection of Walnut Street We are on MBTA Bus Route 429 781-231-1111 We are a Skating Rink with Bowling Alleys, Arcade and two TV’s where the ball games are always on! 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