News and Information from the National Court Appointed Special Advocate Association

Special Features & Profiles

Cover Story: Foster Care Adoption

Rita L. Soronen, executive director of the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption and former CASA Program Director of the Year, writes in depth about foster care adoption. The Kaehler family of Morgantown, WV, share their inspirational story. Includes links to web-based adoption resources.

Read online or download and print the full issue here: Winter 2010 Connection (701 KB PDF)

Voices & Viewpoints

	Volunteer Voice Frank McCoy, volunteer with CASA Kane County in Geneva, IL, speaks movingly about young Ryan. With Frank’s help, the boy comes out of his shell, makes the honor roll and is ultimately adopted by his foster mother.
	From the President Hon. Ernestine Gray reflects on last November’s celebration of Adoption Day in her New Orleans juvenile courtroom.
	Partner Perspective Ben Wilkins of Dallas CASA writes about how foster-adopt homes bridge the gap between removal and reunification, leading to faster permanency when parental rights must be terminated.
	Youth Editorial FosterClub All-Star Natasha Santos describes keeping difficult secrets. She eventually learns to trust adults again and is adopted by a loving family.
	Above and Beyond Hispanic/Latino CASA volunteers reach out to recruit others. Profiles and tips provided by Valarie De La Garza. Article available in Spanish.
	Closing Words National CASA spokesperson Judge Glenda A. Hatchett outlines her new Parent Power Now! Initiative, inspiring adults to help 1,000,000 children post their dreams.

Regular Features

Top Tips for Volunteers

Hon. Michael Nash of the Los Angeles Superior Court and 2006 National CASA Judge of the Year describes five ways to promote adoption.

Association News

Omega Delta Phi Fraternity brings energy to CASA programs across US; results of the 2009 Connection reader survey

CASA program directors Cindy Booth of Indianapolis and Greg Millette of Tifton, GA, describe opposing trends in the numbers of local children in care.

Growing Up in the Care of Strangers: The Experiences, Insights and Recommendation of Eleven Former Foster Kids by Waln K. Brown and John R. Seita

Child welfare organizations nationwide report on the latest research, publications and other news of interest to volunteers and other concerned adults.

Siobhan Greene, executive director of CASA of Monterey County in Salinas, CA, outlines her innovative volunteer recruitment campaign, “30 Advocates in 30 Days.”

CASA programs around the US report their news, including events, awards and other success stories.

Volunteer Betsey Soulsby of Piedmont CASA in Charlottesville, VA, visited her daughter doing volunteer work in Nepal.