The Texas Bar Foundation has announced the award of a grant to CASA of Central Texas in recognition of its outstanding contributions to advocating for children in the foster care system. This grant will support CASA’s efforts to provide trained volunteer advocates for abused and neglected children, furthering the Foundation’s mission to enhance the justice system and improve the lives of Texans.
Since its inception in 1965, the Texas Bar Foundation has awarded more than $30 million in grants to law-related programs. Supported by members of the State Bar of Texas, the Texas Bar Foundation is one of the nation’s largest charitably-funded bar foundation.
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) of Central Texas said this grant will enable the organization to expand its services and reach more children in need.
“We are grateful for the Texas Bar Foundation’s support and commitment to our mission,” said CASA Chief Executive Officer Norma Castilla- Blackwell. “Last year we served 75% of the children in our area. This grant will significantly impact our aim to serve 100% and ensure every child in the foster care system has a dedicated advocate.”
CASA serves Caldwell, Comal, Guadalupe and Hays Counties. The San Marcos office is located at 2725 Hunter Rd.
The organization is part of a national volunteer movement that began in 1977 when Judge David Soukup in Seattle decided he needed to know more about the children whose lives were in his hands. His solution was to ask community volunteers to act as a “voice in court” for abused and neglected children, according to the CASA website.
The Texas Bar Foundation’s support underscores its dedication to fostering legal excellence and community service. Through this grant, CASA of Central Texas will continue to train and support volunteer advocates, contributing to the betterment of the legal profession and the community at large.
For more information about the Texas Bar Foundation and its grant programs, please visit casacentex. org.
