Virtual information sessions on November 16 and December 15 for those interested in joining the spring cohort
BOSTON, Mass. (November 2, 2026) – Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is seeking volunteers to advocate for children in the foster care system after exceeding its goal for serving new children and youth for the third year in a row. Over the past year, Boston CASA welcomed 186 new children and youth, 29% more than its goal. A CASA is a trained, court-appointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions. More than 20% of eligible foster youth in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties now have one.
"Three years in a row, we have exceeded our goals, and that is because of the volunteers and donors across Suffolk and Middlesex Counties who show up for these children,” said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. “Thank you. Our goal is for half of eligible foster youth in these two counties to have a CASA, and we can’t get there without more people stepping up.”
Boston CASA encourages adults across the region to attend an upcoming virtual information session to learn how they can advocate for a child.
What CASAs Do
Unlike mentors or service providers, CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case.
CASAs collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met, advocating for essential services, educational support, healthcare access, and permanent housing. They often become the one consistent adult in a child’s life, helping navigate a complex and ever-changing system.
CASAs are asked to commit 18-22 months or the length of the court case. Initial training requires 30 hours, with 12 hours of ongoing education each year. Once assigned to a case, volunteers typically dedicate 10 to 15 hours per month to their CASA work.
Why It Matters
The need is urgent:
Foster youth are 25% less likely to graduate high school than their peers
Fewer than 1 in 8 will earn a college degree
1 in 4 will experience homelessness after leaving care
According to a national study, 92% of judges say CASAs improve outcomes for children, and 83% say CASAs help ensure children receive essential services. But when a youth has a CASA, they are more likely to succeed in school, access vital services, and secure a stable, permanent home.
Eligibility Requirements
Have a deep desire to make a difference in a child’s life
Be 21 years or older
Commit to at least 18 months of service
Ability to meet with youth 1-2 times a month at their home or in community
Approach difficult situations with compassion and diplomacy
Keep personal beliefs separate from their advocacy role
Children in foster care come from all backgrounds, and Boston CASA is committed to building a volunteer community that reflects that diversity. While all are welcome to apply, we’re especially seeking volunteers who speak additional languages, identify as people of color, are men, or are part of the LGBTQ+ community. Your lived experience can make a powerful difference in a child’s life.
Upcoming Info Sessions
Attending an information session is required to apply for the organization’s next volunteer training cycle, which begins in the spring. These sessions will give you an overview of the organization and our work, the application and interview process, as well as more details about the training required to become a CASA.
Sessions will be held virtually on Zoom:
Monday, November 16, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.
Tuesday, December 15, 12 to 1 p.m.
Thursday, January 7, 5:30-6:30 p.m. (Last info session before the spring training)
Sign up for an upcoming information session HERE. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory. For more information or to register for an info session, visit: www.bostoncasa.org,
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About Boston CASA
Boston CASA recruits, trains, and supports volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties for children removed from their homes due to abuse and neglect, most of whom end up in foster care. Unlike mentors, CASAs work within the child welfare system, advocating directly in court and alongside DCF to ensure children in foster care receive the support, stability, and services they need. Research shows that just one consistent adult can change a child’s trajectory. Help us be that difference. Volunteer, donate, or support our mission at www.bostoncasa.org. #ChangeAChildsStory