Mission
Our mission is to advocate for safe, permanent, and nurturing homes for abused and neglected children by providing specially selected and trained community volunteers.
Vision
We envision providing a volunteer voice for all abused and neglected children in the West Tennessee juvenile court system.
Our History
Madison County
Madison County CASA was established in 1996 when out-of-state CASA volunteers Joe and Carrie McCarthy relocated to Jackson and realized the need for child advocates in the Madison County court system. With the help of local attorney Christy R. Little, they brought their dream to life. The founding group carefully selected members of the community to serve, and the first CASA volunteer provided advocacy for the children of Madison County in 1997. Madison County CASA has since provided support for over 1,000 children.
A Word from Judge Little
“As a Juvenile Court Judge, I see horrible situations involving our children unfold every day. I always look to a CASA volunteer for help and informed accurate facts. CASA means to me: “a person who becomes the eyes, ears, and voice of an abused or neglected child whose future depends on their training and instincts. A business person, teacher, or homemaker who works tireless hours combing over medical records, police reports, and court files. In addition, that same dedicated volunteer completes home studies, background checks and speaks to teachers, neighbors and their most important source of information, their client and CASA child.”
Haywood County
In October of 2022, a new CASA chapter was established in Haywood County. Volunteers are thrilled to join in making a lasting impact and shaping a brighter future for kids who need it most. Together, we can rewrite the narratives of these young lives and create a world where every child’s needs and wishes are at the forefront of the court’s decision-making.
A Word from Judge Scott
“One of the first items on my to-do list when I was sworn in as judge in January of 2022 was to look into bringing CASA to Haywood County. I have seen first hand the positive impact CASA volunteers have on the juvenile court system and in a child’s life. Having a CASA volunteer involved in dependency and neglect proceedings significantly improves the process and gives the child a voice and to me that is paramount. Every child going through these proceedings deserves to be heard and to be advocated for and CASA fulfills both of those needs. I am excited to partner with Madison County CASA and finally bring
CASA to Haywood County.”
