WHO WE ARE
CASA/GAL of Miami County is a voice for children who have been abused or neglected. We believe every child deserves to have a dedicated advocate speaking up for their best interest in court. CASA volunteers meet with the child’s family, teachers, therapists and any other adults in the child’s life, then they make an independent, unbiased and informed recommendation to the judge on behalf of the child.
The child becomes the priority instead of feeling invisible, unheard and unsafe.
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. They are people just like you—people who decided to stand up for an abused or neglected child. To become a CASA volunteer, each person completes an interview, has a background check and attends a 30-hour training program, including courtroom observation. Becoming a CASA volunteer is a life-changing experience! It is an impactful way to help children in need and to make our community a better place.
CASA/GAL of Miami County has four staff members and nearly 50 volunteers. We supported 198 children in 2021, sadly, an increase from the prior year. We are a dedicated and caring team that supports the innocent children in our community by helping them navigate through a scary time. Our volunteers build relationships with children for whom we advocate to ensure better life outcomes. Children represented by a CASA volunteer are more likely to do better in school and find permanency.
OUR MISSION
To provide dedicated volunteers to advocate in court for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
OUR VISION
To ensure that every child who has experienced abuse or neglect has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and loving home, because of the support and involvement of their community.
OUR CORE VALUES
Integrity –
We respectfully and ethically provide quality advocacy.
Collaboration –
We build connections and partnerships through open communication.
Compassion –
We understand and empathetically respond to the needs of those we serve.
Respect –
We promote diverse, trusting, inclusive environments and outcomes.
IMPACT AT A GLANCE
(2023 numbers)
205
Children with a CASA Volunteer
56
CASA Volunteers
3,000
Advocacy Hours
381
Court Hearings
OUR TEAM
CASA/GAL of Miami County has a board of directors who guide and govern the direction of our organization. All members on the board are residents of Miami County and are eligible to serve up to two three-year terms.
Our 2024 Board of Directors
Bobby Phillips, President
Sherry Saddler, Vice President
Joanna Pittenger, Treasurer
Teresa Hottle, Secretary