Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in foster care. Lyon County CASA exists to give a voice to our most vulnerable children – our purpose is to recruit, train and support court appointed special advocates so that every abused and neglected child can be safe, establish permanence and have the opportunity to thrive. Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA volunteers, are empowered directly by the courts. They offer the system critical information to ensure each child’s rights and needs are being addressed. CASA volunteers advocate in court for what is in the best interest of the child. Children become part of the child welfare system when Nevada’s Division of Child and Family Services (DCFS) has determined it is unsafe for the child to remain at home due to abuse or neglect. CASA volunteers “speak up” for the children!