Kansas CASA Association, Inc.

Overview

The Kansas CASA Association, Inc., also known as Kansas CASA, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting and expanding Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs across Kansas. CASA volunteers are trained community members who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court.

Mission and History

The Kansas CASA Association was incorporated in 1991 to develop, grow, and sustain local CASA programs. These programs aim to increase the number of trained volunteers advocating for children in the Kansas court system. The first CASA program in Kansas was established in 1981 in Wichita, and by 1986, the Kansas Supreme Court had created standards and guidelines for all CASA programs in the state.

Services and Programs

Kansas CASA provides several services to local programs, including:

• Technical Assistance: Offering guidance and tools to enhance program management and effectiveness.
• Networking and Community: Coordinating meetings for local programs to share best practices and collaborate.
• Training: Providing annual training for CASA directors and local program boards.
• Volunteer Recruitment and Public Awareness: Coordinating statewide recruitment efforts and corporate partnerships to raise awareness about child abuse.
• Data Collection: Utilizing CASA Manager software for volunteer and case management to track program outcomes.
• Resource Development and Grants: Managing pass-through funding to local CASA programs through statewide grants.

Structure and Governance

Kansas CASA is governed by a board of directors that includes representatives from diverse backgrounds, such as social services, legal, and healthcare sectors. The board conducts annual assessments and adheres to a conflict-of-interest policy to ensure transparency.

Impact

By supporting 23 local CASA programs across 71 counties in Kansas, the organization has significantly increased the number of children served. In 2016, for example, CASA programs in Kansas served nearly 2,000 children with the help of over 900 volunteers. Children with CASA volunteers are more likely to find safe, permanent homes and spend less time in foster care.

Recognition and Standards

All programs in Kansas must meet state standards and guidelines to be certified as CASA programs. Every four years, programs undergo a quality assurance process through the National CASA Association to ensure compliance with specific standards. CASA volunteers undergo rigorous background checks and training before advocating for children in court.

[1] https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2017_18/committees/ctte_h_children_and_seniors_1/documents/testimony/20170207_04.pdf [2] https://www.guidestar.org/profile/48-1092742 [3] https://www.kansascasa.org/local-programs/programs.html [4] https://www.kansascasa.org/who-we-are/overview.html [5] https://www.kansascasa.org/who-we-are/mission-history.html