According to Dallas CASA Executive Director and President Kathleen M. LaValle,
![Kathleen LaValle (File photo)](https://mysweetcharity.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/IMG_0306-Kathleen-LaValle.jpg)
“At Dallas CASA, we have helped thousands of abused and neglected children in Dallas–but we face a tremendous challenge.
“Each year in Dallas County, over 3,800 children are removed from their homes because it simply is unsafe for them to live there. These children are waiting for the courts to decide where they can safely and permanently live. CASA volunteer advocates communicate critical information to help our judges determine what is best for each child.
“The harsh reality is that more than half of these children are waiting for a CASA volunteer-a Court Appointed Special Advocate-to be their voice, in and outside of the courtroom.
“During this holiday season and into the New Year, our wish is to dramatically increase the number of volunteer advocates to enable us to serve every abused and neglected child who is removed from an unsafe home and brought into protective care.
“To serve every child in need, Dallas CASA must more than double its volunteer ranks.
![Dallas CASA*](https://mysweetcharity.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/12/Dallas-CASA.png)
“As we work to double the number of CASA volunteers, we also need to increase our funding to train and supervise our volunteers. It costs approximately $2,186 per year to provide a CASA volunteer to help an abused child. If you are unable to devote the time necessary to volunteer, please consider making a donation to our annual fund. With your support, together, we can help abused children heal and become successful, productive adults.
“Can we count on you to help ensure that all children are given every chance to have safe, loving and permanent homes where they can thrive?”
-Kathleen M. LaValle, Dallas CASA Executive Director & President
* Graphic provided by Dallas CASA