About Us
There are more than 2,000 reports of suspected child abuse or neglect in Central Oregon each year. 374 children are currently in foster care - we need volunteers and supporters to help us advocate for these children!
To report child abuse or neglect in Crook, Deschutes, or Jefferson counties, call 1-855-503-SAFE (7233).
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![Two girls and two boys laughing while exploring outdoors]()
CASA of Central Oregon
CASA was established in Central Oregon in 1992. In 2005, Crook, Deschutes, and Jefferson County programs merged establishing CASA of Central Oregon. CASA of Central Oregon is a 501(c)3, federal tax id 93-1062982.
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![Male CASA volunteer connecting with young male child]()
What is a CASA?
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. They are appointed by judges to watch over and advocate for children in foster care and make sure they don’t get lost in the overburdened child welfare system. Volunteers stay with each case until it is closed and the child is placed in a safe, permanent home.
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![Female CASA volunteer with young female child]()
Our Mission
CASA of Central Oregon is a nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports volunteers who advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in the court system. CASA volunteers work within the courts in collaboration with key agencies, legal counsel and community resources to ensure that every child in foster care in Central Oregon can transition into a safe and permanent home.
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![Male CASA volunteer teaching young boy to throw ball for dog]()
Our Vision
All children have the inherent right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.
The Impact of a CASA Volunteer
As an example of the powerful impact a CASA can have on a child and family, we invite you to watch this video where you’ll meet Sally, a dedicated CASA volunteer, and youth Josi and her guardian Judy. Their story highlights how a trained volunteer advocate can provide consistency, support, and a trusted voice during a child’s time in foster care. Through regular visits, court advocacy, and a commitment to showing up, CASA volunteers help ensure children and families feel seen, heard, and supported when they need it most.
National studies show that a child with a CASA volunteer fares better during their time in foster care than a child without a CASA volunteer. Children with a CASA volunteer:
are more likely to find a safe, permanent home,
are half as likely to re-enter foster care,
are more likely to pass all school courses,
are more likely to receive medical and educational services needed,
and report higher levels of hope*.
*National CASA/Gal Association
With gratitude to our partner foundations for their support!
