Betsy Stark Miller

When a child who has been abused or neglected is going through the trauma of the foster care system, a Court Appointed Special Advocate is tirelessly working to guide them through safely, quickly, and effectively. A CASA advocate is the tireless and passionate protector of a child who has been abused or neglected and is going through the trauma of the foster care system. They are granted tremendous authority by the court, and are able to do what it takes to see that a child is prioritized, their best interests and critical needs are addressed, and that the presiding judge is able to understand the true facts of a child’s condition in an over-burdened child welfare system. CASAs are in a unique position to work in the system without being of the system. Throughout the process, CASAs have permission to visit the children regularly, talk to a child’s parents, teachers, caseworkers, doctors and therapists in order to hear all perspectives and give an unbiased portrayal of the case to the judge. At CASA for Children of Multnomah, Washington, Columbia & Tillamook Counties we recruit, train, and support these CASA volunteers.