Texas CASA
Margaret Halpin is an experienced professional in the field of advocacy and training, currently serving as the Learning and Development Manager for Pre-Service Training at Texas CASA since June 2018. Prior to this role, Margaret worked at CASA of Travis County as a Child Advocacy Specialist and Training Specialist from June 2016 to May 2018. Margaret's career also includes a significant tenure at the National Domestic Violence Hotline from February 2013 to June 2016, where responsibilities included managing digital services and supervising the loveisrespect initiative. Earlier work experience includes serving as an Outreach Specialist at The University of Texas at Austin in 2011-2012. Margaret holds a Bachelor of Arts in American Studies from The University of Texas at Austin, obtained in 2008.
Texas CASA
When a family is in crisis and becomes involved in the child welfare system, a volunteer may be appointed by a judge to advocate for the child. That volunteer is called a Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA. CASA volunteers provide valuable information to the judge and others involved in the case to help ensure a child's best interest is being met. At the local level, the 72 CASA programs in Texas do the hands-on work of recruiting, training and supervising volunteers to speak up in court and represent the best interests of children. As the statewide organization, Texas CASA provides financial support and services to help ensure the state's CASA programs operate effectively and works directly with the state legislature to create systemic changes - clearing the path for volunteer to better advocate for children. Vision: A safe and positive future for all Texas children and families. Mission: To support local CASA volunteer advocacy programs and to advocate for effective public policy for children and families in the child protection system. The CASA Way: We have an uncompromising belief that we will achieve what others think is impossible, and each of us is an essential part of the solution.