By JEFF MARTIN
Volunteers are tasked with assessing the needs of children in foster care and advocating for their best interests. They collaborate with attorneys, caseworkers, family members and other professionals to ensure children are receiving the proper services, whether that’s helping them stay with their families or facilitating their move into a permanent home. For older youth aging out of the foster system, volunteers assist in the transition to independent living.
As 2025 begins, the organization is seeing demand for its services, and the need for volunteers continues to grow.
Kathy Park, executive director of CASA of Chautauqua County, said the program is still recovering from the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the implementation of the Family First Act which caused a decline in the number of children entering care. While the volunteer base remains strong, there’s still a significant need for more support, specifically male volunteers. CASA, Park said, is making a concerted effort to focus on attracting those male volunteers.
In 2024, CASA served 48 children with the help of 28 volunteers, ranging in age from 21 to 73. Many are retired teachers or college students studying social services. After completing 30 hours of training, volunteers are asked to dedicate at least eight hours a month, spending quality time with the child, talking with family, caregivers, teachers, therapists’ other important adults involved with the child and presenting to the courts information and concerns.
Park explained that the average length of time a child is supported by a CASA volunteer is about three years.
“Our volunteers make a real impact,” she said. “They’re often the only consistent adult in a child’s life, and that stability is key.”
While CASA operates across New York State, the Chautauqua County chapter remains focused on its local community. Volunteers undergo background checks and complete training based on a curriculum created by the National CASA Association.
Park highlighted the need for more male volunteers.
“We don’t have enough male role models, and we’ve seen how important they can be for the children we work with.”
With over 100 children currently in foster care in Chautauqua County, the number continues to rise. The opioid epidemic at one time contributed to more children entering the system and a growing number of youth aging out without finding permanent homes.
CASA is also seeking financial donations to support its work. Contributions can be made through the organization’s website or by mailing checks to CASA of Chautauqua Co. at 2 Academy Street, Suite 5, Mayville, NY 14757.
Visit the website at https://www.chautauquacasa.com