What We Do

CASA of Mercer County is one of the newest Court Appointed Special Advocate Programs in Ohio

Our Mission: A safe, permanent home for every child

CASA of Mercer County is part of a nationwide network that recruits, screens, and trains volunteers from local communities to advocate in court for the best interest and safety of children who have experienced abuse and neglect. We are committed to providing stability and restoring hope by connecting specially trained volunteers to children in need.

Our Vision: A trained CASA Volunteer for every child who needs one

Specially trained to advocate for a child or a sibling group’s best interest, CASA Volunteers ensure children’s rights are protected and their needs are met. Cases can last several years, during which time children will change foster homes up to three times on average. Once appointed, CASA Volunteers stay with their assisgned children throughout, often becoming the only consistently stable adult presence in their lives.

CASA Programs enrich their communities by encouraging civic engagement. They help relieve the strain on an overburdened child welfare system and court dockets. The need is ongoing, and growing, and CASA of Mercer County is committed to keeping pace with the state’s changing needs.

“This program provides that opportunity to make a positive difference in the lives of some of the most vulnerable in our community by ensuring someone is there to be a voice for children who have endured neglect or abuse. CASA Volunteers frequently become the only consistent adult presence in the child’s life.”

— Judge Gilmore, Mercer County Juvenile Court