Making Our Voices Heard – CASA Day at the Capitol is Almost Here!
Dear friends,
Advocacy has always been at the heart of CASA’s mission — because when we show up, speak out, and stand together, real change happens. This also goes for ensuring the voices of children in foster care are heard at the Texas Capitol. That’s why our public policy work is a top priority, and it’s why I want to personally invite you to CASA Dayat the Capitol on March 27th.
Before joining Texas CASA in 2012, I spent 16 years working for the State serving as the executive director of the Texas Juvenile Probation Commission. I know firsthand that the conversations happening under the dome in Austin have a direct impact on the children we serve. I also know that lawmakers listen when people from their communities show up. That’s why our approach to policy work is strategic, collaborative and deeply rooted in the realities of the child welfare system.
Now, more than ever, our Public Policy team is exactly where they need to be — inside the Capitol, where decisions are being made. They are there early in the morning and late into the night, meeting with lawmakers, their staff, judges and partner organizations. They are building relationships, having tough conversations and making sure CASA and the children we serve are always part of the discussion. These connections are critical, and they don’t happen by accident. It takes showing up, again and again, to make a lasting impact. The work is ongoing because, when one session ends, planning priorities for the next session begins. Texas CASA works in partnership with local CASA programs to set its priorities —ensuring the voices of staff and volunteers across Texas are included in the conversation. You can see the result of that partnership reflected in our priorities for the 89th Legislative Session here.
CASA Day at the Capitol is our opportunity to stand beside local CASA programs, amplify our message, and show legislators that we are a united force for change. When volunteers, staff and community members come together, we remind lawmakers that these children aren’t just statistics, they’re real kids with real needs. It is also a wonderful way for us all to connect – starting the night before on March 26 at the Volunteer Appreciation Reception dedicated to your incredible work every day.
If you’ve ever wondered how you can make an impact beyond the courtroom, this is it. Join us, raise your voice and help us make lasting change. To get involved, visit here. If you can’t make it to CASA Day at the Capitol, you can still follow the bills Texas CASA is supporting by checking out our bill tracker here .
Let’s show Texas what CASA stands for.
If you are not currently involved with CASA, I ask you today to consider how you can play a part in making a difference in the lives of our most vulnerable children. Are you ready to take the first step towards becoming a CASA volunteer? Visit BecomeACASA.org to learn how you can speak up for a child who needs you. You can also support the work of Texas CASA by making a secure online gift that will help support the local CASA volunteer advocacy programs across the state.
