In California, one third of the children out of foster homes become homeless; 50% are unemployed in four years; 40% are on public assistance; one fifth are incarcerated.  These are grim statistics that can be dramatically changed by the efforts of CASA.  In Seattle, over forty years ago, a judge, determined he did not have enough information on juveniles who were abused or neglected, to make an appropriate decision as to their future.  He created a group of volunteers to become advocates for children awarded to the courts; to follow, study and make recommendations to the court.  CASA, a non profit organization, was formed.  Government, with lack of funding, changing personnel, bureaucracy, etc., is not equipped nor does it have a mission to be advocates for these children.  Trained volunteers become a quasi functionary parent/advocate.

      These citizen advocates are appointed by a judge to discover the best possible outcome for an abused or neglected child's future and assure that they are placed into a safe, permanent home and to give them hope for a better life.  Being a volunteer advocate is a gratifying experience that touches not only the life of a child but that of the volunteer as well.  In SLOCounty, 3,500 children are reported as abused, neglected or abandoned each year.

            Orton cited several success stories resulting from the advocacy reports that go directly to the court.  They review records, research information about the abused child's life: social workers, family, attorneys, teachers and the children themselves.  You can help by becoming a volunteer, become an advocate educator, join their guild, support a CASA fund raising event or by direct donation.  Phone: 541-6542, www.slocasa.org