GRUNDY COUNTY – The Iowa Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program is returning to Grundy County, bringing fresh energy and new opportunities for community members to support children in the child welfare system. CASA has a long-standing presence across Iowa and nationwide, and we’re excited to once again include Grundy County in this powerful advocacy network.

CASA volunteers speak up for a child’s best interests in court. They visit the child monthly, learn their story, and provide clear, child-focused reports to the judge. Volunteers come from all backgrounds and walks of life, and their steady presence offers stability and clarity at a time when life can feel unpredictable. Judges, caseworkers and families rely on CASA volunteers to help ensure each child’s needs are heard and understood.

Children in Grundy County need advocates who understand the heartbeat of this community — the schools, the neighborhoods, the values and the people. These are our neighbors’ children, our coworkers’ children, our children’s classmates. When a local adult shows up just for them, it reminds each child that they matter and that hope exists right here at home.

CASA’s return to this area supports the statewide Reach99 initiative, which aims to “put hope in reach” for every Iowa child by building a CASA presence in all 99 counties. CASA is committed to serving children statewide, yet many volunteers currently drive long distances to support kids in counties like Grundy, who don’t yet have a local advocate. Building each county’s own community of CASA volunteers ensures children have support from someone rooted in the place they call home; it matters.

Volunteers must be at least 19 and complete a background check and 30 hours of training.

To learn more or apply, visit hhs.iowa.gov/casa or call 866-448-4608.