The Story of CASA of Western Maryland
CASA of Western Maryland has changed over the years. Our agency served Allegany County exclusively from 2013-2020, serving hundreds of foster children and youth. In 2021, the program in Washington County was merged with the program in Allegany County, becoming CASA of Western Maryland. Our agency went from having no resources and only a handful of volunteers, to a thriving program with 15+ volunteers serving more than 30 children.
CASA of Western Maryland trains volunteers to provide advocacy for approximately 30 CINA (Child in Need of Assistance) cases in Western Maryland. The children we serve range in age from newborns to teenagers. CASA Advocates are appointed by the courts and CASA Advocates report to the Court, providing information to the judges about the child’s needs and best interests, assisting the judge in making the most well-informed decision. Advocates get to know their child(ren) and can be a consistent figure in the child’s life, sometimes the only one in the court system that is there voluntarily and strives to always represent what is best for the child. Although the judge has the final say, the recommendations of a CASA Advocate are considered and play a vital role in the outcome.
CASA of Western Maryland has had the privilege to watch many children and youth find permanency and walk along many CASA volunteers as they truly make a significant impact in the lives of the children and youth that they serve.