Texas CASA Honors Judge Randy Shelton for His Commitment to Children and Families

Every child involved in the child welfare system deserves to have their voice heard and their best interests at the center of decisions about their future. Judges and CASA volunteers play important, complementary roles in making that possible.

On Monday, Texas CASA hosted the annual Judicial Appreciation Reception at the Children’s Commission Child Welfare Judges Conference. During the reception, CEO Vicki Spriggs had the honor of presenting the 2026 Judicial Innovation & Leadership Award to Judge Randy Shelton of Jefferson County. Judge Shelton was nominated by CASA of Southeast Texas for his dedication to children and families involved in the child welfare system.

A Commitment to Children and Families

Judge Shelton has served Jefferson County since 2007 and has demonstrated a strong commitment to child welfare and juvenile justice throughout his career. During his six years serving on the Children’s Commission, he helped advance important work supporting the education of children in foster care, including chairing the Foster Care and Education Committee.

Nominated by CASA of Southeast Texas, he was praised for treating families with compassion, dignity, and respect, and for making time for CASA volunteers and community events. In one memorable example, he arranged a courthouse tea party for girls living in a local group home, giving them the chance to sit behind the bench and feel special.

Strong Partnerships Make a Difference

Judges and CASA volunteers share a common goal: ensuring children’s voices and best interests remain central to decisions about their futures. CASA volunteers build relationships with children, learn about their needs and experiences, and share that information with the courts.

Last year, Texas’ 73 local CASA programs served more than 17,000 children, with volunteers contributing more than 324,000 hours of service. Yet approximately 10,000 children in foster care still need a CASA volunteer.

Through partnerships with local programs, judges, and child welfare professionals, Texas CASA continues working to expand access to CASA advocacy and improve outcomes for children and families.

Congratulations to Judge Shelton on this well-deserved recognition!