Who We Are
Texas CASA’s Story
Established in 1989, Texas CASA is the statewide membership association for all local CASA programs. In this role, we support the CASA network by serving as the administrator of state and federal funds, setting and monitoring standards, providing training, leading a statewide volunteer recruitment campaign, advocating for public policy and more. Texas CASA is committed to partnering with statewide stakeholders and the CASA network to elevate best practices when working with children and families.
Mission
Texas CASA’s mission is to support local CASA programs with training, community awareness, resources and public policy to make a positive difference in the lives of children and families in Texas.
Vision
Texas CASA envisions communities where all children and families can safely thrive.
Local CASA Programs
Collectively, the local CASA programs serve the majority of Texas’ 254 counties. As integral members of their respective communities, they recruit, train, supervise and support court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interest of children. Local programs also coordinate and collaborate with other service providers who share the mission of supporting Texas families.
National CASA/GAL Association
The National CASA/GAL Association, together with state and local member programs, supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and the opportunity to thrive.
OUR CORE BELIEFS
Texas CASA believes:
- Children, parents and families of all abilities, backgrounds, experiences and identities deserve the highest quality advocacy and support.
- Every child deserves to feel and be safe and to have their needs met.
- It is in a child’s best interest to remain with and be connected to their parents and family of origin whenever possible.
- Every child deserves lifelong caring connections with others and a stable home.
- All parents and family members should be provided the chance to be heard and to show themselves as safe and caring.
- Every child deserves to thrive; children thrive and heal in healthy, positive relationships.
- Family is defined by the individual and is not limited to blood or adoptive relations.
- Every family is unique, complex and has their own challenges; challenges can be overcome and resilience can be built.
- Collaboration is important for families and the professionals supporting them, and helps to build shared commitment, participation and understanding.
- Legislative and social advocacy are powerful tools to systematically protect the health and well-being of children and families.
Meet Our Teams
Administration
The Administration team supports Texas CASA and local programs by managing finance, accounting, strategic planning and human resources to ensure operational efficiency and compliance. They also develop policies, oversee risk management, and maintain financial integrity through audits, contract management and adherence to regulatory standards.
Communications
The Communications team upholds brand guidelines and shapes communication for all teams that bring Texas CASA into public awareness and dialogues. This team is responsible for creating communication materials for the network, stakeholders and the public. This team also manages the Texas CASA website, email marketing efforts and social media channels.
Grants
The Grants team provides local programs support by overseeing pass-through funding, managing state and federal grants, and ensuring compliance with grant requirements. This team also provides support and assists with the Online Data Manager (ODM) which allows local CASA programs to submit their data, funding, and reimbursement requests.
Public Policy
The Public Policy team advocates for state funding to support local programs, Texas CASA, and its initiatives and projects. This team also builds and maintains relationships with legislators, legislative staff, the Governor’s office and key stakeholders at the Texas Capitol.
Collaborative Family Engagement
The CFE team leads the coordination, training, and support for Texas’ approach to family finding and engagement, ensuring the effective “implementation of CASA programs, DFPS, SSCCs, and support for Texas’ approach of family finding and engagement to ensure effective implementation for CASA programs, DFPS, SSCCs and other child welfare partners. This team also creates materials for building connections and hosts CFE events for CASA programs, CPS and SSCCs.
Fund Development
The Fund Development team builds and manages relationships with funders, donors, prospective supporters and community partners. This team also secures funding sources to support Texas CASA’s events, projects and trainings, as well as collaborates with other state and/or local CASA organizations on partnerships to support CASA in Texas.
Network Services
The Network Services division is comprised of three teams in one: Strategic Network Support, Collaborative Family Engagement and Program Operations. Network Services acts as a liaison to the Regional Representatives and engages in workgroups of local CASA programs to collaborate on efforts that impact and benefit the CASA network.
Strategic Network Support
The Strategic Network Support team provides coaching, consultation and training to network recruiters to enhance their knowledge, skills, techniques and strategy in volunteer awareness and recruitment. This team also leads the logistical coordination and provides planning support for Texas CASA events.
