CASA for Babies: 'Stacey'

A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer is needed to serve as a "Baby CASA" for 18-month-old "Stacey." Child Protective Services (CPS) removed the little girl from her home because the mother was unable to care for her because of mental health issues. The father abandoned the family before Stacey was born.

Among the Baby CASA volunteer's responsibilities: Monitoring Stacey's progress in her foster home to help ensure that her needs are being met; assisting CPS in working with the mother to determine whether behavioral health services and in-home support might result in her being able to parent Stacey appropriately; participating in monthly meetings with Baby CASA volunteers and other team members to discuss Stacey's progress and ensure that she receives screening and services for age-appropriate developmental milestones and medical care; working with CPS to identify other relatives who might be able to assist the mother in her efforts to care for her daughter or to provide an adoptive home, if necessary; and making recommendations to the judge as to the best long-term placement for this little girl. CASA volunteers need to provide information to the court at report and review hearings throughout the life of a case.

If you are interested in becoming a CASA volunteer for this case or a similar one and making a difference in the life of a child, please contact the CASA office at 928-771-3165.

EDITOR'S NOTE: This child's name has been changed to protect the identities of those involved, and this child is not eligible for adoption at this time.