For a child in foster care, almost everything can change overnight—their home, school, caseworker, caregivers, and sometimes even the people they see every day. A CASA volunteer can be the one person who stays.
In this episode of Oklahoma City Nonprofits in Action, we sit down with Kim Vanbebber of CASA of Oklahoma County to talk about the incredible impact Court Appointed Special Advocates have on children experiencing foster care.
Kim shares the story of Clara, who entered the child welfare system at six years old after experiencing severe abuse. Over the next 12 years, she moved through 20 different placements—but one person remained consistent: her CASA volunteer.
That volunteer showed up for birthdays, holidays, court hearings, educational needs, and the everyday moments that mattered. Years later, Clara graduated high school with that same advocate still in her corner.
In this episode, we discuss:
* What a CASA volunteer actually does
* Advocating for children in foster care
* Why consistency matters for kids experiencing trauma
* How CASA works with judges, DHS, foster families, schools, and attorneys
* The realities of Oklahoma's child welfare system
* The commitment required to become a CASA
* How volunteers are trained and supported
* Why one consistent adult can change a child's future
At the time of this conversation, CASA of Oklahoma County had 129 children waiting for a volunteer.
You don't need a legal or child welfare background to become a CASA. You need the time, commitment, and heart to consistently show up for a child who needs someone in their corner.
Learn more or apply to volunteer:
okcountycasa.org
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