DIVERSITY OUTREACH
Volunteers are placed with a child based on that child's individual needs. Often these children are more comfortable with, and trusting of, advocates who best understand their cultural needs and can connect with a child on that level.

Overwhelmingly, African-American and Hispanic/Latino children are overrepresented in the child welfare system. In fact, African-Americans represent only 15% of the total population but make up 34% of the children in the foster care system nationwide. In NJ, this percentage is even higher. Of all CASA volunteers, currently only 12% are African-American. With more than 50% of the African-American children in need being boys, we have a special need for more men to stand up and be counted as everyday heroes and role models in the lives of these future men.

Nationwide, there are 91,000 Hispanic/Latino children currently in the foster care system and fewer than 2,000 Hispanic/Latino volunteers to serve them. Bilingual Hispanic/Latino volunteers are especially needed. While all volunteers communicate in English during court proceedings and in reporting, they are often working with individuals whose first language is Spanish. Navigating language barriers is critical to ensuring success for a child. Currently only 10% of all CASA volunteers are Hispanic/Latino.

But our need for volunteers is critical, no matter your cultural background. Please consider standing up for a child who needs you most. You truly can make a difference.