Jeanne Muller has CASA genes. That’s the special ingredient that makes her the perfect Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA. For the past seven years, Jeanne has worked tirelessly with children and their families involved in the juvenile court system. All of these children have been neglected in some way. Most have suffered physical or sexual abuse.

One of these children is Michael. At just two months old, Michael was taken to the emergency room with a bilateral skull fracture. Fearing for his safety at home, a judge ordered that Michael and his one-year-old brother live with their grandparents until their parents completed a treatment plan that included anger management and parenting classes. Michael’s CASA was closely involved with the parents over a six-week period. During that time, the CASA conducted an investigation. Michael’s parents followed through with everything in their treatment plan. The CASA’s investigation determined that Michael’s skull was fractured when he was accidentally pushed off a bed by his older brother. Based on the recommendation of the CASA, Michael and his brother were returned to their parents and spent the holidays at home.

CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge, serving as an independent voice for children in court proceedings. CASA volunteers help ensure that children receive appropriate services and treatment by monitoring each child’s situation, identifying community resources, and participating in the court process. CASAs make recommendations on behalf of the child by coordinating with doctors, teachers, attorneys, therapists and social workers. CASA volunteers are community members with a variety of educational and professional backgrounds. Most have full-time jobs. Often they are the only voice for a child and can literally save a child’s life.

Remarked Giving Voice founding member, Susan Law, "The CASA spends the most time with the child, observing him or her in school, at play and at home. Their message is clear, ‘Protect the life of a child’. Being respected by the courts, and in particular by the judges, CASA’s are crucial advocates for children in the courts."

In 1999, the Denver metro CASA programs served 405 of the 1,657 new abuse and neglect cases filed. Most often, there are two or more children involved in each case. The goal is to match a CASA to each new case filed. The first CASA program began in 1977.

Help your community’s children!

• Volunteer to become a CASA.
• Make a financial contribution to support CASA’s in your community.

To Give the Light of Hope, call:

Denver CASA for Denver and outlying areas
Amy Naes
303-832-4592

CASA of Adams County
Stacie Kallsen
303-654-3378

Advocates for Children (Arapahoe, Douglas, Lincoln and Elbert counties)
John Walsh
303-695-1882

Voices for Children (Boulder County)
Marsha Caplan
303-440-7059

CASA of Jefferson and Gilpin Counties
Christine Bess
303-279-2742