CHAMPIONING EVERY CHILD California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
A network of 44 local CASA programs in 52 counties advocate on behalf of children and youth in foster care, where 99% of the youth in foster care reside.
OUR VISION Every child in the California child welfare and juvenile justice systems who needs advocacy will have the transformative support of a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer.
OUR MISSION The mission of California CASA is to ensure that children and youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems have both a voice and the services they need to thrive. We achieve this by strengthening and empowering California’s network of local CASA programs and advocating for effective child welfare policies and practices.
OUR
VALUES COLLABORATION We acknowledge that we are part of a greater community and work respectfully with local CASA programs and other partners to effectively carry out our mission.
INNOVATION We embrace bold creativity to transform new ideas into tangible services and results for local CASA programs.
IMPACT We are dedicated to supporting, empowering, and evaluating the impact of local CASA programs so that they perform at their highest level of advocacy for children and youth in foster care, and their families.
INCLUSIVENESS We value, embrace, and respect the inclusion of all cultures, races, orientations, and ethnicities, treating everyone fairly and equitably.
JUSTICE We believe that children and youth in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems deserve fair and just treatment, advocacy, and equitable opportunity.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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“
When I was very young, most of my childhood heroes wore capes, flew through the air, or picked up buildings with one arm. They were spectacular and got a lot of attention. But as I grew, my heroes changed, so that now I can honestly say that anyone who does anything to help a child is a hero to me. — Fred Rogers
”
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
DEAR FRIENDS, THE THEME OF OUR FY2022/23 ANNUAL IMPACT REPORT IS CHAMPIONING EVERY CHILD. This encapsulates our unwavering commitment to ensuring every child in foster care in California has a Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer by their side, speaking up for their needs and best interests. We’ve always known that advocacy is powerful. Through the CASA model, it shows up in different ways. Whether it’s helping a child find their voice, or facilitating access to vital services, or just being there as a friend. But who advocates for the policies that drive the work of CASA programs throughout the state? At California CASA, we’ve increasingly filled this role. 2023 was a breakthrough year for coalition-building and advocacy that we attribute largely to you, our supporters. For far too many years, achieving our vision to provide a CASA for every child needing advocacy and mentorship has seemed improbable. With over 72,600 youth in foster care statewide and only 17% connected to a CASA, we face a monumental gap that we’re determined to bridge. In June 2022, landmark legislation set the stage for future transformation. GOVERNOR NEWSOM AND THE LEGISLATURE APPROVED A HISTORIC $60 MILLION INVESTMENT over three years for our network. We are proud to have provided first-year grants to each of the 44 local CASA programs in January 2023, a $16 million investment, providing the stability and resources to dramatically expand capacity. This essential funding enabled us to achieve the following: 8,638 CASA VOLUNTEERS SERVED 12,022 YOUTH ACROSS CALIFORNIA, CONTRIBUTING 409,495 HOURS VALUED AT OVER $15 MILLION. This represents important progress. However, with close to 50,000 children each year still needing a champion, our work has only just begun. WE KNOW THE CASA MODEL WORKS. Youth in foster care with CASA volunteers have better educational outcomes, receive more services, are mentally and physically healthier as adults, and reach a permanent home faster. In the year ahead, we are launching new initiatives to help local programs recruit and train more volunteers across California to advocate for the tens of thousands of children who deserve to have a caring adult championing their well-being. Our collective efforts can provide these youth with the foundation they need to thrive. To further advance this commitment, we are proud to have recently completed a California CASA-commissioned research project, the first of its kind, that demonstrated through data the benefits of the CASA model for youth in the juvenile justice system. The study revealed that youth in juvenile justice who were assigned a CASA were less likely to commit another offense. The support of a CASA also significantly increased their perceptions of self-efficacy, the sense of control over one’s life. California CASA and the network look forward to using these insights to inform program innovation and impactful expansion. To fully achieve our vision to serve every child, we must secure a robust and sustainable mix of public funding and private philanthropy. With approximately $4,000 needed to train and support each CASA volunteer, serving all youth in care statewide could ultimately cost $200 million or more annually. Though this sum appears daunting at first glance, it pales in comparison to the monumental societal and taxpayer costs if these vulnerable children continue to lack consistent support and become adults more likely to experience homelessness, financial hardship, or incarceration. NONE OF THIS PROGRESS WOULD BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT YOU—our donors, partners, and advocates, statewide. Your generosity and leadership provide California CASA the means to strengthen local programs so they can transform young lives, championing every child. We have come far, but much work lies ahead. Thank you for supporting us as we take our next step in this journey. WITH HEARTFELT GRATITUDE,
Michelle Griffin Board Chair, FY2022/23
Sharon M. Lawrence, Esq. Chief Executive Officer
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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SUPPORTING CASA PROGRAMS STATEWIDE California CASA operates on a statewide scale, delivering crucial services directly to 44 local CASA programs spanning 52 counties. Our mission is to empower these programs to recruit, train, and supervise thousands of CASA volunteers. We help local programs expand their services to more children by offering professionallevel training programs, expertise, volunteer training materials and resources, comprehensive support in marketing and fundraising, as well as leadership on legislative advocacy and policy issues impacting the child welfare system.
ADVOCACY We provide leadership at the state level, communicating the CASA mission and message to the State Legislature, Governor, and other elected officials, using our collective voice to speak up for policies and legislation to benefit children and youth in the foster care system.
FUNDING We identify funding and partnership opportunities to meet the needs and goals of local CASA programs so they can recruit more volunteer advocates, increase awareness in their communities, and help more children who have experienced abuse and neglect.
TRAINING Our training programs, featuring expert lecturers and child-welfare specialists, range from an annual multi-day leadership conference for Executive Directors/CEOs to webinars and in-person classes for CASA staff and volunteers to specialized training on such subjects as juvenile justice, DEI, and organizational development.
NETWORKING We bring together CASA leadership, staff, and volunteers through multiple communication channels, including in-person and online gatherings. As a central contact point for 44 CASA programs, California CASA ensures the collective tools, knowledge, best practices, and high professional standards of our network are shared statewide.
AWARENESS We raise the visibility of the CASA mission and the needs of children and youth in foster care through large-scale, statewide marketing campaigns, public service announcements, social media outreach, public relations, and strategic partnerships.
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
AMPLIFYING LOCAL CASA PROGRAM
IMPACT BY THE NUMBERS
$16,000,000
CALIFORNIA CASA GRANTS to 44 CASA programs
$13,742,000 VALUE OF PROGRAM SERVICES from California CASA to CASA programs $5,748,000
VICTIMS OF CRIME ACT FUNDS received by CASA programs
$2,713,000
CALIFORNIA JUDICIAL COUNCIL FUNDING allocated to CASA programs
164
HOURS OF CUSTOMIZED TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE provided by California CASA
4,178
PARTICIPANTS in California CASA TRAININGS
2,640
VOLUNTEER INQUIRIES sent to local programs via the California CASA website
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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CHAMPIONING EVERY CHILD CALIFORNIA 12,022 Children Served with a CASA 72,690 Total Children in Foster Care 17% SERVED
“
My CASA Nancy stuck with me through many ups and downs, especially helping with school for the past two years. I’m now 18, graduated from high school, with a part-time job, living in a stable foster home, and attending college. This is ALL due to the advocating Nancy did for me and the special bond we share!
— Youth in Foster Care 6
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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CALIFORNIA CASA
NETWORK IMPACT IN 2O22
The California CASA Association takes pride in backing a network of 44 local CASA programs across 52 counties. Collectively, we have provided support to 12,022 children in foster care through the dedicated efforts of 8,638 CASA volunteers statewide.
12,022
*Children in Foster Care Served by the California CASA Network
72,690
**Children in Foster Care in California
$15,282,353 ***Total Value of Service Hours
44
Local CASA Programs
52
Counties Served by Local Programs
8,638
409,495 Total Hours Contributed by CASA Volunteers
Active CASA Volunteers
$67,414,900
Total Annual Revenue of all Local CASA Programs Statewide
570
514
Staff Members Employed by CASA Programs
Local CASA Program Board Members
* National CASA data, based on local programs reporting, and re-verified by California CASA (does not include children on wait lists) (CY 2022 Annual Local Program Survey Report) ** Children and Non-Minor Dependents (NMD) in Dependency in California, child welfare county, CY2022 CA Dept. of Social Services (CWS/CMS 2023Q2) *** Independent Sector Rate for California, 2022: $37.32/hour X total hours contributed
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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ADVOCACY IN
ACTION 8
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
ADVOCACY IN ACTION FY2022-2023 JUNE 2022
Governor Gavin Newsom and the California State Legislature made a transformative investment in children and youth in foster care, who are among the most vulnerable in our communities: $20 million per year over three years for a total of $60 million to support the Court Appointed Special Advocate program. In partnership with the local CASA programs, California CASA envisioned this $60 million as our launch pad to enhance the capacity of the entire network to recruit more volunteers and serve more children, more quickly and effectively, and ultimately achieve our vision: that every child in California’s foster care system can have a CASA by their side if they need one.
DECEMBER 2022
California CASA awarded grants to each of the 44 local CASA programs, totaling $16 million, with an average grant of $363,600. These capacity-building grants were intended to help programs stabilize operations so they can effectively expand their multiple bases of support to provide more children with the life-transforming advocacy of a CASA.
JANUARY 2023
Unexpectedly, Governor Newsom eliminated funding for years two and three of the $60 million commitment in his proposed FY2023-24 budget, due to a state budget deficit. The proposed $40 million cut meant opportunities would be lost, resulting in fewer resources to support our state’s CASA programs, fewer volunteers would be recruited and trained, and fewer children would be offered a chance to thrive with the skilled and compassionate support of a CASA volunteer.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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ADVOCACY IN ACTION FY2022-2023 FEBRUARY 2023
Undeterred, California CASA rallied and made a compelling appeal to Governor Newsom and his administration. We engaged with numerous legislative offices and garnered bipartisan support, underscoring the universal acknowledgment of the indispensable role of CASA volunteers in the lives of children in foster care.
Assemblymember Isaac Bryan with Jaheim, former foster youth
Assemblymember Tom Lackey
MARCH 2023
Assemblymember Stephanie Nguyen
Assemblymember Joe Patterson
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
Our California CASA team joined dedicated local program leaders, staff, volunteers, and a courageous youth, in Sacramento. Together, we met with 27 legislative offices to showcase the profound impact of CASAs. With the support of CASA program leadership, California CASA staff, our lobbyists, and legislators on both sides of the aisle, we made a strong case to Governor Newsom and his administration to restore funding. We shared inspiring stories that highlighted CASAs’ vital role in championing individual youth and educated decision-makers about the immense challenges vulnerable children face. In addition, our CEO Sharon M. Lawrence testified at the Senate Budget Subcommittee No. 5.
APRIL 2023
Raising awareness across the state on what the loss of funding would mean to youth in foster care, we spearheaded a media campaign that gained traction in prominent publications, including in the Los Angeles Times: “Amid budget concerns, Newsom pulls back funding increase for foster care advocate program” and The Sacramento Bee: “Newsom’s proposed cuts to foster program angers advocates. ‘You’re hurting our youth.’”
MAY 2023
The Governor released his revised FY2023-24 budget and restored the $40 million previously proposed for elimination—$20 million a year in FY2023-24 and FY2024-25! We are grateful to Governor Newsom for keeping his promise to children in foster care, as well as for the bipartisan support of the State Legislature. We are also thankful for the local programs and volunteers who spoke up and joined the advocacy efforts.
JUNE 2023
Senator Marie Alvarado-Gil Senator Josh Newman
March 23, 2023, was officially declared “CASA Appreciation Day” by the California State Legislature, sponsored by Senator Josh Newman, himself a former CASA with Orange County CASA. As noted in the resolution, CASA volunteers champion children in foster care without compromise, in court, in school, and in the community, putting them on the path to a safe and permanent home. We applauded the dedication of CASA volunteers and staff on this special day of acknowledgment.
Senator Aisha Wahab
Our advocacy efforts extended beyond the primary goal of restoring state funding. This legislative session, we endorsed several bills aimed at enhancing the quality of life for youth in foster care. These initiatives focused on augmenting food assistance, broadening housing options, and enabling access to debt-free college education. A significant victory on the policy front was the passage of SB 307, ensuring free college education for foster youth. Given that 90% of youth in foster care aspire to attend college but less than 4% attain a fouryear degree, SB 307 eradicates financial barriers by covering tuition, accommodations, food, and books for those attending California State University, University of California, and community colleges.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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AWARDING $16 MILLION IN GRANTS TO THE NETWORK Harnessing the first year of a $20 million state appropriation, California CASA allocated $16 million in grants to bolster the 44 local CASA programs. Every program in the state received funding, ranging from $32,803 to $2,651,472, awarded in installments, with the average grant totaling $363,600. These funds played a pivotal role in amplifying capacity, fortifying recruitment and training efforts, and stabilizing local budgets and staffing. As a first-time grant maker, California CASA had to develop the infrastructure to evaluate, administer, and monitor grants, which included the hiring of its first Grants Management Manager and deploying an online grants management system. All proposals were vetted thoroughly with objective criteria and were reviewed by a California CASA staff committee, as well as outside evaluators including staff from other state CASA programs. With the remaining $4 million—20% of the state allocation— California CASA invested in statewide volunteer recruitment initiatives, shared resources and enhanced infrastructure for the network, statewide training curricula, and the collection of data on program implementation and outcomes to support reports to the Legislature, and other uses to expand CASA services in the state.
$
$20 million state appropriation
80%
$16 million grants to 44 local CASA programs
20%
$4 million in network capacity building provided by California CASA
PROGRAM INNOVATION AND CAPACITY-BUILDING
CASA of San Joaquin County, in conjunction with the Child Abuse Prevention Council of San Joaquin County, appointed a Child Advocate Specialist to extend support to an additional 30 children and youth, particularly in challenging-to-place areas and those on the waitlist. A collaboration with the successful CASA program in Santa Barbara County has enabled San Joaquin to adopt best practices in their advocacy.
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
Child Advocates of Silicon Valley introduced an Out-of-County Plan to ensure that all eligible children and youth beyond Santa Clara County have access to a CASA. This strategy promotes collaboration with neighboring counties to maximize advocacy for those who need it, while adhering to national standards, and recruiting CASA volunteers who are willing to travel out of county.
Marin CASA made significant strides in their organization by appointing their first Director of Development and successfully holding their first gala fundraising event in five years, raising more than $200,000 in contributions. Additionally, Marin CASA secured new private philanthropic support which has further bolstered their financial stability.
COUNTY
ORGANIZATION
TOTAL
Alameda
Alameda County CASA
$198,229
Amador and Calaveras
CASA of Amador and Calaveras Counties
$108,416
Butte, Glenn, Shasta & Tehama
CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta & Tehama Counties
$122,923
Contra Costa
CASA of Contra Costa County
$358,153
Del Norte
CASA of Del Norte
El Dorado
Child Advocates of El Dorado County
$211,423
Fresno and Madera
CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
$352,612
Humboldt
CASA of Humboldt
$183,850
Imperial
CASA of Imperial County
$274,944
Inyo and Mono
CASA of the Eastern Sierra
$44,381
Kern
CASA of Kern County
$489,233
Kings
CASA of Kings County
$284,721
Lake and Mendocino
CASA of Mendocino and Lake Counties
$109,587
Lassen
CASA of Lassen Family Services
Los Angeles
CASA of Los Angeles
Marin
Marin CASA
Mariposa
CASA of Mariposa County
$32,803
Merced
CASA of Merced County
$238,031
Modoc
Modoc CASA
$41,500
Monterey
CASA of Monterey County
$324,072
Napa
Napa CASA
$63,588
Nevada
Child Advocates of Nevada County
$107,771
Orange
CASA of Orange County
$942,095
Placer
Child Advocates of Placer County
$259,423
Plumas
Plumas CASA
$80,243
Riverside
Voices for Children Riverside
$697,151
Sacramento
CASA Sacramento
$725,596
San Benito
CASA of San Benito County
$106,142
San Bernardino
CASA of San Bernadino County
$535,440
San Diego
Voices for Children San Diego
$1,253,480
San Francisco
San Francisco CASA
$291,617
San Joaquin
CASA of San Joaquin County
$207,605
San Luis Obispo
CASA of San Luis Obispo County
$519,740
San Mateo
CASA of San Mateo County
$312,727
$55,113
$88,633 $2,651,472 $255,190
Santa Barbara
CASA of Santa Barbara County
$478,367
Santa Clara
Child Advocates of Silicon Valley
$811,342
Santa Cruz
CASA of Santa Cruz County
$544,573
Siskiyou
CASA of Siskiyou County
$70,721
Solano
CASA of Solano County
$328,032
Sonoma
CASA of Sonoma County
$149,715
Stanislaus
CASA of Stanislaus County
$206,365
Tulare
CASA of Tulare County
$186,342
Ventura
CASA of Ventura County
$330,191
Yolo
Yolo County CASA
$366,449
$16,000,000
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR
CONFERENCES AND CAPACITY BUILDING ED/CEO CONFERENCE
We were inspired by the convergence of learning, inspiration, and collaboration, and are optimistic about the strides we’ll make together in our ongoing journey.
NATIONAL CASA/GAL CONFERENCE The highlight of National CASA/GAL’s 2023 Conference was Kim Colby Davis, Executive Director of CASA of Santa Barbara County, receiving the 2023 Kappa Alpha Theta Program Director of the Year Award! An Executive Director since 2009, Kim’s planning expertise and innovative program development have resulted in remarkable achievements, including a 340% increase in program growth. In addition, she has generously shared her time and experience as a mentor to many colleagues within the California network of local programs. At the national level, Kim has been the chair of the Suburban Leadership Council, as well as a member of the National Leadership Council where she served as liaison to the National CASA/GAL Board of Trustees. We are grateful to Kim for her years of dedication advocating for children and youth in foster care and join many others who recognize and appreciate her leadership, innovations, and mentorship.
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
Leaders from across the CASA network and recognized experts, dedicated time to connect, share best practices, and celebrate our collective accomplishments at our annual ED/CEO Conference, held in Costa Mesa this year. The timely theme—organizational culture—was explored by speakers: Samantha Clarke, author of Love It or Leave It: How to be Happy at Work, Tariq Meyers, former Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Lyft and Coinbase, and Betsy McFarland, a Volunteer Recruitment and Retention expert. A special thank you to Charity Chandler-Cole, CEO of CASA of Los Angeles, Regan Phillips, CEO of CASA of Orange County, and Michael Wong, Chair of the Board of Directors of CASA of Orange County, for their enlightening presentations that offered invaluable insights and stimulated engaging discussions. The conference also included a dedicated Far North Regional Meeting, providing local program leaders an opportunity to discuss regional issues and share best practices.
INCREASING NETWORK CAPACITY California CASA retained the services of several experts from APCO, Bridgespan, and Adisa—available to local programs for free consultations—in the areas of growth and sustainability and volunteer recruitment. Working with Learning for Action, the creation of a statewide data and outcomes initiative will also guide local CASA programs in improving their services and outcomes. These services, combined with grants, will work in concert to increase local capacity to serve more children across the state.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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HIGHLIGHTS OF THE YEAR
DIVERSITY, EQUITY, AND INCLUSION California CASA achieved a pivotal goal in its ongoing mission to integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) into the fabric of our organization and to address racial disparities in the child welfare system. We completed a nine-month training cohort, crafted and delivered by consultants Rev. Samuel Offer and Elizabeth Yohe of Washington Consulting Group. A group of 32 participants, representing 26 CASA programs and including 6 staff and Board members from California CASA, completed this first phase of our DEI Train-the-Trainer program. The DEI training is also being piloted by the entire Board of Directors of California CASA and will soon be implemented throughout the state. We also made the commitment and investment in hiring California CASA’s first DEI Manager, Cynthia Featherson. With 25 years of experience in cultivating inclusive environments, Cynthia’s appointment marks a significant stride in our ongoing DEI journey. She has a rich history of roles that honed her skills in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion across various organizations. In her capacity as DEI Manager, Cynthia will lead initiatives to foster a more inclusive and respectful workplace, aided by insights from our DEI Taskforce. She is tasked with enhancing an environment where all employees, volunteers, and community partners feel respected and valued, aligning with our core value of championing every child. Her role underscores our commitment to ensuring every child is supported in a context of diversity and inclusion. In addition, we introduced our newest service, the Language Line. We addressed language barriers by providing on-demand live translation for phone calls and translated written materials in an impressive 290 languages. This service is completely free for all CASA programs. It is designed to empower and support our programs, ensuring that language differences do not hinder our ability to assist our network members. California CASA’s ongoing DEI initiatives, including the comprehensive training, the appointment of a dedicated manager, and our new Language Line service, underscore our determination to make impactful strides in this vital area. Every step taken is rooted in the fundamental objective of ensuring our organization is not just diverse but is enriched with an ethos of inclusivity, where the unique narratives of every child we serve are acknowledged, respected, and supported.
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California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
VALUE TO THE NETWORK Ashley Vorhees
Executive Director, CASA of Kern County I cannot thank California CASA enough for all the support they have provided me and our local program these past six months. Over the past few years, our program has endured a variety of challenges that needed to be addressed and corrected. As a new Executive Director and being new to the network, the California CASA staff has rallied around CASA of Kern County to help me and my team get the program back on track in order to serve more children. It is true when they say that the comeback is always stronger than the setback, and my hats off to California CASA for being our launch pad!
Don Kleinfelder
Executive Director, Child Advocates of Placer County My first week as a CASA Executive Director was spent at a California CASA gathering where I learned that I am surrounded by great fellow Executive Directors and that California CASA will always be there to ensure my (and their) success. Now, 17 years later, I still find that when I need help, California CASA staff are the ones to call. Over the years, they have helped Child Advocates of Placer County grow from a tiny struggling program on probation with Judicial Council (California CASA helped me get out of that!) to a multi-county program that serves both foster and juvenile justice children. Most recently California CASA helped us expand into Yuba County in less than a year. The staff are my supporters, my confidants, and my friends. They make me a better Executive Director of a better program.
Lynne Petrovic Executive Director, CASA of Santa Cruz County California CASA has been an invaluable partner as we developed our Juvenile Justice program. From the very beginning, they partnered with us, providing invaluable training and resources. When we were ready to move from a pilot program into a fullfledged juvenile justice program, they gave us the most powerful gift of all—the funding to securely and confidently grow. Because of our partnership with California CASA, we have successfully launched this program. Our Juvenile Court Judge recently said, “I am so incredibly grateful to have CASA (of Santa Cruz) working with justice-involved youth. . .With CASA as an integral part of our care team, we are better equipped to make well-informed decisions about the futures of these young adults.”
Kim Colby Davis Executive Director, CASA of Santa Barbara County As a Director with over 15 years of experience, leading a local CASA program staff that offers a combined 107 years of CASA experience, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable impact of California CASA on our statewide network. California CASA has become a trailblazer in supporting CASA programs of all sizes. California CASA excels in legislative advocacy, an area that is critical to the success of all CASA programs, but which is more impactful when done at the state level. Their dedication to fostering growth among local programs is commendable and vital to the children in need in California. Thanks to California CASA, our once daunting challenge to grow and serve every child has become an attainable goal. Their commitment to legislative advocacy has been transformative, advocating tirelessly for the best interests of the child. California CASA is the cornerstone of our success, and I’m proud to stand alongside them in this vital mission.
Kate Rahmeyer Executive Director, Plumas CASA California CASA has been a key player in the success of our small rural CASA program. They provide across-the-board, full service and support for every aspect of running the CASA program. The topic of the monthly calls is always relevant, and I am ecstatic that they initiated an online platform of continuing education for our volunteers this year. When we have had local issues, I was easily able to have one-on-one conversations with the Chief Program Officer and Chief Executive Officer leading to new and innovative paths forward for our program. Plumas CASA is grateful for the continuing support California CASA provides.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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THE POWER OF
CHAMPIONING EVERY CHILD BENEFITS FOR YOUTH IN FOSTER CARE For a child navigating the foster care system, the role of one consistent, caring CASA volunteer is incredibly impactful. Extensive research shows foster youth paired with a CASA are far more likely to thrive in key areas than peers without an advocate. With a CASA, children are more likely to be placed in a safe, permanent home, remain connected to loved ones, and receive vital services. CASAs help ensure youth stay on track educationally and graduate high school. Studies find foster youth with a CASA report greater hope and resilience. They are less likely to re-enter the child welfare system after achieving permanency. In short, volunteer advocates lift up youth who feel unseen and unheard. They champion children’s needs in courtrooms, classrooms, and communities. CASAs empower youth to envision a brighter tomorrow and make their voices heard.
Achieve a permanent home
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Receive vital services in a timely manner
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
Be on track to graduate from high school
Do not re-enter the child welfare system
Report higher levels of hope
Have long-term connections to loved ones
BENEFITS OF THE CASA MODEL FOR YOUTH IN JUVENILE JUSTICE Five years ago, California CASA undertook the first-ever study of randomly assigned Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers to youth in the juvenile justice system. Through our CASAs for Juvenile Justice Youth pilot project—made possible through the generous support from an advised fund at the Silicon Valley Community Foundation—we applied the dependency court CASA model to the juvenile justice population. Random assignments were utilized across three California counties: Santa Cruz, Monterey, and Ventura. We compared the outcomes for school attendance, compliance with conditions of probation, and self-efficacy—the sense of control over one’s life—for two groups: 1) youth on probation assigned a CASA, and 2) youth on probation not assigned a CASA. Despite the significant delay caused by COVID-19, as CASA activities were put on hold for more than one year and at times limited to remote/virtual contact, our researcher, Joseph Ryan, MSW, PhD, at the University of Michigan’s Child & Adolescent Data Lab, is confident the overall findings positively indicate that CASA services improved outcomes for these youth in the juvenile justice system. According to Dr. Ryan, and supported by the data:
“Adolescents assigned to CASA volunteers experienced significant gains in self-efficacy, especially within the academic domain. Moreover, adolescents assigned to CASA volunteers were significantly less likely to recidivate, as measured by a new offense.” The pilot definitively demonstrated that assigning CASAs in the juvenile justice system significantly decreases the youth’s probability of committing another offense and significantly increases their perceptions of self-efficacy—their confidence in themselves to control their behavior and exert influence over their environment. Self-efficacy is a fundamental aspect of psychological development, and critical to the successful transition to adulthood, as it promotes feelings of accomplishment and personal well-being. California CASA’s pilot study is a concrete example of the positive impacts of thoughtful intervention and the unwavering belief in every young person’s potential within the juvenile justice system. This trailblazing study brought to light yet again the invaluable role of CASA volunteers. They are more than supporters; they play a pivotal role in actively contributing to the personal and developmental growth of these youths. Each CASA volunteer acts as a catalyst, vital in unveiling and nurturing the inherent potential within each child. This ensures that every youth’s unique story and potential are acknowledged, supported, and championed, guaranteeing that no child is left behind. To date, more than half of California’s 44 CASA programs have expressed interest in implementing a juvenile justice CASA program in their county.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
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WHO WE
SERVE
Ethnicity, Age, and Gender of the 12,022 children in California served by CASAs in 2022
AGE
0-6 7-12 13-16 17-18 18+
20
21% 29% 28% 15% 7%
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
GENDER
Female Male Other
52% 47% 1%
ETHNICITY
Hispanic/Latinx White/Caucasian Black/African American Unknown Multiracial Native American Asian Pacific Islander
37% 24% 14% 15% 6% 2% 1% 1%
DISPROPORTIONALIT Y IN CALIFORNIA FOSTER CARE Compounding the challenges of a complex child welfare system are issues of ongoing disproportionality. In 2022, Black/African American youth were the most overrepresented, making up 5.5% of the general state population and 21.2% of youth in foster care. Hispanic/Latinx youth make up 48.2% of the population in California but represent 53.8% of the youth in foster care. LGBTQ+ youth are another vulnerable population overrepresented in child welfare systems, with some studies reporting 30% of youth in foster care identifying as LGBTQ+ and 5% as transgender, in comparison to 11% percent and 1% percent of youth, respectively, not in foster care. LGBTQ+ youth of color are also disproportionately overrepresented in the child welfare system and unfortunately have longer stays in the child welfare system, while also being at greater risk for experiencing violence and discrimination.
BLACK/AFRICAN AMERICAN YOUTH make up 5.5% of the population in California but represent 21.2% of the youth in foster care WHITE/CAUCASIAN YOUTH make up 30.1% of the population in California but represent 20.9% of the youth in foster care HISPANIC/LATINX YOUTH make up 48.2% of the population in California but represent 53.8% of the youth in foster care ASIAN/PACIFIC ISLANDER YOUTH make up 11.3% of the population in California but represent 2% of the youth in foster care
Addressing the inequalities in California’s child welfare system is a long-term and complicated undertaking. California CASA’s current efforts include supporting policy changes that reduce disproportionality and actively recruiting board members, staff, and volunteers who reflect the diverse backgrounds of children, in order to provide supportive and affirming environments.
NATIVE AMERICAN YOUTH make up 0.4% of the population in California but represent 1.3% of the youth in foster care
53.8 48.2
% OF CALIFORNIA POPULATION
% OF YOUTH IN FOSTER CARE
30.1 21.2
20.9 11.3 2
5.5
Black/African American
White/ Caucasian
Hispanic/ Latinx
Asian/ Pacific Islander
.4
1.3
Native American
Sources: California Child Welfare Indicators Project and Youth.gov California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
21
CHILDREN SERVED IN CALIFORNIA
Children Served with a CASA
Total Children in Foster Care
% Served
Alameda County CASA
312
1,409
22%
CASA of Amador and Calaveras Counties
71
204
35%
CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta, and Tehama Counties
164
1,439
11%
CASA of Contra Costa County
200
849
24%
CASA of Del Norte
31
144
22%
Child Advocates El Dorado County
187
192
97%
CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties
255
3,953
6%
CASA of Humboldt
60
491
12%
CASA of Imperial County
462
507
91%
CASA of the Eastern Sierra (Inyo and Mono)
38
38
100%
CASA of Kern County
457
2,789
16%
CASA of Kings County
75
487
15%
CASA of Lassen Family Services
90
111
81%
CASA of Los Angeles
1,145
25,667
4%
Marin CASA
112
114
98%
CASA of Mariposa County
25
41
61%
CASA of Mendocino and Lake
109
436
25%
CASA of Merced County
118
780
15%
Modoc CASA
15
32
47%
CASA of Monterey County
180
276
65%
Napa CASA
102
121
84%
Child Advocates of Nevada County
77
91
85%
CASA PROGRAM
22
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
Children Served with a CASA
Total Children in Foster Care
% Served
CASA of Orange County
1,129
3,764
30%
Child Advocates of Placer County
343
350
98%
Plumas CASA
15
54
28%
Voices for Children Riverside
462
4,705
10%
CASA Sacramento
279
2,293
12%
CASA of San Benito County
49
51
96%
CASA of San Bernardino County
150
7,804
2%
Voices for Children San Diego
1,789
3,206
56%
San Francisco CASA
374
864
43%
CASA of San Joaquin County
127
1,688
8%
CASA of San Luis Obispo County
242
386
63%
CASA of San Mateo County
178
212
84%
CASA of Santa Barbara County
497
604
82%
Child Advocates of Silicon Valley (Santa Clara)
672
953
71%
CASA of Santa Cruz County
203
207
98%
CASA of Siskiyou County
39
97
40%
CASA of Solano County
152
499
30%
CASA of Sonoma County
209
681
31%
CASA of Stanislaus County
170
851
20%
CASA of Tulare County
281
1,445
19%
CASA of Ventura County
254
730
35%
Yolo County CASA
123
468
26%
CASA PROGRAM
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
23
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIES FOR THE FISCAL YEARS ENDED JUNE 30, 2023 AND JUNE 30, 2022 California CASA began an unprecedented journey of transformation following the announcement of the $60 million State Appropriation over three years ($20 million a year) signed into law by Governor Gavin Newsom on June 30, 2022. Of the total appropriation, $48 million is to provide direct funding to the state’s local CASA programs to help stabilize their operations and staffing, and to build statewide capacity to serve more children and youth in foster care with the advocacy and mentoring of a CASA volunteer. We immediately set forward with the equitable distribution of the state funding to all 44 local CASA programs, thus turning California CASA into a grantmaking organization. The remaining $12 million is to be strategically deployed by California CASA for statewide volunteer recruitment initiatives, shared resources and enhanced infrastructure for the network, development of statewide training curricula, and collection of data on program implementation and outcomes to support reports to the Legislature and other uses to expand CASA services in the state. 2023 Without Donor Restrictions
With Donor Restrictions
Total
$13,186,673
—
$13,186,673
Contributions
$573,461
$48,181
$621,642
Grants
$330,500
—
$330,500
Investment Income
$300,068
—
$300,068
Other Revenue
$4,229
—
$4,229
Special Events
—
—
—
$395,592
$(395,592)
—
$14,790,523
$(347,411)
$14,443,112
$13,742,367
—
$13,742,367
General and Administrative
$472,745
—
$472,745
Fundraising
$352,407
—
$352,407
$825,152
—
$825,152
$14,567,519
—
$14,567,519
Change in Net Assets
$223,004
$(347,411)
$(124,407)
Net Assets at Beginning of Year
$1,825,595
$1,024,197
$2,849,792
NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR
$2,048,599
$676,786
$2,725,385
REVENUE AND SUPPORT Government Grants
Net Assets Released from Restrictions Total Revenue and Support EXPENSES Program Services Supporting Services
Total Supporting Services Total Expenses
24
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
The state funding has significantly expanded California CASA’s scope of work, allowing a significant increase in effective, strategic, professional-level services and resources designed to unburden local program staff from some of their basic operational requirements. In this way, local programs can recruit, train, and supervise more CASA volunteers and thus serve more children. California CASA retains only 5% of the state appropriation annually to manage administrative and overhead costs associated with the grant cycle to distribute the funding, while bolstering comprehensive services for the entire network.
2022 Without Donor Restrictions
With Donor Restrictions
Total
$471,549
—
$471,549
$655,926
$1,242,691
$1,898,617
$782,680
—
$782,680
$3,276
—
$3,276
$16,735
—
$16,735
$22,916
$22,916
$218,494
$(218,494)
—
$2,171,576
$1,024,197
$3,195,773
$1,149,867
—
$1,149,867
$208,067
—
$208,067
$280,275
—
$280,275
$488,342
—
$488,342
$1,638,209
—
$1,638,209
$533,367
$1,024,197
$1,557,564
$1,292,228
—
$1,292,228
$1,825,595
$1,024,197
$2,849,792
To reach our goal of serving 50,000 children and youth in the child welfare system with a CASA volunteer, each year, we anticipate the California CASA network needing at least $200 million annually in public and private revenue. We are on an ambitious mission to significantly increase philanthropic revenue and to support the network of 44 programs in doing the same. Our spending priorities reflect our vision and mission, and our financial statements represent the values embraced by California CASA’s Board of Directors and staff.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
25
FINANCIAL OVERVIEW STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION JUNE 30, 2023 AND JUNE 30, 2022 ASSETS 2023
2022
$9,619,569
$2,229,060
Accounts Receivable
$102,945
$125,613
Pledges Receivable
$260,000
$250,000
Prepaid Expenses
$46,656
$13,047
$10,029,170
$2,617,720
Pledges Receivable, Net
$236,015
$465,335
Total Noncurrent Assets
$236,015
$465,335
$10,265,185
$3,083,055
CURRENT ASSETS Cash and Cash Equivalents
Total Current Assets NONCURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS
LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS CURRENT LIABILITIES Accounts Payable and Accrued Expenses
$96,515
$48,829
Accrued Payroll and Related Liabilities
$228,145
$184,434
Deferred Revenue
$7,215,140
—
Total Current Liabilities
$7,539,800
$233,263
TOTAL LIABILITIES
$7,539,800
$233,263
Undesignated
$1,199,622
$989,340
Board Designated Operating Reserve
$848,977
$836,255
Total Net Assets Without Donor Restrictions
$2,048,599
$1,825,595
$676,786
$1,024,197
Total Net Assets
$2,725,385
$2,849,792
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS
$10,265,185
$3,083,055
NET ASSETS Without Donor Restrictions:
With Donor Restrictions
26
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
REVENUES & SUPPORT FY2022-23
Government Grants
REVENUE
EXPENSES
$13,186,673
91.30%
Contributions
$621,642
4.30%
Grants
$330,500
2.29%
Investment Income
$300,068
2.08%
$4,229
.03%
Other Revenue TOTAL REVENUE
$14,443,112
Program Expenses
$13,742,367
94.33%
General and Administrative
$472,745
3.25%
Fundraising
$352,407
2.42%
TOTAL EXPENSES
$14,567,519
Our Chief Financial and Operating Officer is Joan Reilly, MBA; The Board of Directors’ Treasurer is Howard Slayen; the Audit Committee Chair is Wende Julien, J.D.; and our auditor is Leaf & Cole, LLP, San Diego, California. The financial statements of California CASA have been prepared on the accrual basis of accounting which is in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (U.S. GAAP), and, accordingly, reflect all significant receivables, payables, and other liabilities. Complete financial statements are available for review at www.californiacasa.org.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
27
WITH GRATITUDE The California CASA Association is a private, nonprofit organization that depends on the generosity of individuals, foundations, corporations, and government agencies to sustain our operations. We thank all our supporters who enabled us to expand services to our statewide network of 44 local CASA programs that provided advocacy for 12,022 vulnerable children in California foster care. Episcopal Impact Fund is proud to support California CASA as they collaborate with their statewide network to influence and support legislation and policies that positively affect children, youth, and families impacted by poverty and homelessness. The powerful influence of a CASA, one caring adult, can change the path for youth in foster care by connecting them to services, benefits, and community resources that lead to fixed housing and stable futures. CASAs provide youth involved in the child welfare and juvenile justice systems a voice and opportunity to succeed in education, employment, and overall wellness. — EPISCOPAL IMPACT FUND
The In-N-Out Burger Foundation believes in California CASA’s mission to strengthen and empower the network of local CASA programs and CASA volunteers. Through advocacy and mentoring, they provide a vital voice and a chance to children in foster care; because every child deserves a bright future. — IN-N-OUT BURGER FOUNDATION
28
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
California CASA is the best way that we can leverage the economy of scale to provide support and resources to the local CASA organizations. — GEORGE LAI BOARD MEMBER, CALIFORNIA CASA PRESIDENT, LILY LAI FOUNDATION
I am so grateful to all the hard workers at California CASA! They are handling a tough (and heartbreaking) job supporting the children and youth of California. I’m glad that I am able to help support them at least a little bit every month and hoping that more donors can join in too! I will continue to support California CASA for as long I can. Thank you again for all that you do! — AMY, MONTHLY DONOR
BE A
CHAMPION FOR EVERY CHILD
California CASA exists to strengthen the scope, quality, and impact of our state’s network of local CASA programs so they can recruit and train more volunteers and serve more children. All our work is provided free of charge to the network. A gift to California CASA amplifies our collective impact. Our goal is to provide CASAs to 50,000 children a year.
Together, we can champion every child. HOW TO HELP TODAY! MAKE A DIRECT TAX-DEDUCTIBLE DONATION, a stock transfer, a gift through your employer’s matching gift program, or an estate gift. Please visit www.californiacasa.org/donate to learn more. BECOME A CASA VOLUNTEER! Find your local program at our website: www.californiacasa.org. JOIN OUR ONLINE SOCIAL MEDIA NETWORK on Facebook, X/Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram.
California CASA Association is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization (IRS Tax I.D. #68-0163010), and all donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
29
“
I believe that children are better when all the adults in their lives communicate and work together for them and a CASA volunteer is that golden thread that keeps it all together. Had she not come into my daughter’s life, I don’t think I would have been able to focus on myself to heal and change the way I needed to for reunification with my children. I am forever grateful. — Parent
”
30
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
BOARD OF DIRECTORS & STAFF FY2022/23
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Michelle Griffin, Chair Sarah Delaney Rosendahl, Vice Chair Howard Slayen, Treasurer Allyson Pfeifer, Secretary Kevin Gardner, Immediate Past Chair Nancy Banning Doyle Katy Carlsen, MD, FAAP June Collison Heidi Davis-Spargo (as of 7/1/23) Renée Espinoza Wende Julien, J.D. Marie Kennedy George Lai Elisa Mendel Kim Moore George Sapp Conor Taniguchi (as of 7/1/23) Patricia Yamamoto Trendacosta Tyrone Roderick Williams, MCP Clay Young
Photo does not include all staff. Staff list is current as of 12/1/23.
STAFF Sharon M. Lawrence, Esq., Chief Executive Officer Kathryn Mathews, Chief Program Officer Joan Reilly, MBA, Chief Financial and Operating Officer Lauren Bergquist, Chief Philanthropy Officer Quinton Buckley, Senior Director of Program Operations Eric Cheng, Data Management and Outcomes Specialist Anne Farrell, Senior Strategy Advisor* Cynthia Featherson, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Manager Jody Hudson, Director of Philanthropy The Hon. Carol Isackson (ret.), Senior Policy Advisor* Kelly LeRossignol, Director of Foundation Relations & Grants Jeannie Low, Marketing and Communications Director Gabriela Magallon, Program Operations Specialist Angelina Muñoz, Administrative Assistant* Shawn Noetzli, Director of Philanthropy Sarah Pollock, Bookkeeper and HR Administrator Eduardo Rangel, Graphic Design/Marketing Assistant Jenna Snyder, Manager of Annual Giving Cady Villarreal, Executive Assistant *part-time
CONSULTANTS Meera Chary, Bridgespan, Strategic Plan Consultant Nicole Devine, PBO Advisory Services, HR Consulting Services Kimberly Gardiner, APCO, Growth & Sustainability Consultant Steve Maviglio, Media Consultant Betsy McFarland, Adisa, Volunteer Recruitment Consultant Dr. Katie McGeehan, Learning for Action, Data & Outcomes Consultant Tracy Meiners, StudioTM, Graphic Designer Gregg Middlemist, Clickable IT, Inc., IT Consultant Erin Niemela and Tiffany Phan, Niemela Pappas & Associates, Lobbyists Eric Pitarresi, Harris Rock Consulting, Fundraising Database & Research Rev. Samuel Offer and Beth Yohe, The Washington Consulting Group, DEI Advisors Cameron Rich, HR Recruiter Linda Spuck, Fundraising/Legacy Giving Bryan Winke, Bryan Winke Design, Graphic Designer Melissa Whitehouse, Equilibrium Collaborative, Strategic Planning
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
31
NETWORK OF CASA PROGRAMS
32
COUNTY SERVED
LOCAL CASA PROGRAM
ALAMEDA AMADOR BUTTE CALAVERAS CONTRA COSTA DEL NORTE EL DORADO FRESNO GLENN HUMBOLDT IMPERIAL INYO KERN KINGS LAKE LASSEN LOS ANGELES MADERA MARIN MARIPOSA MENDOCINO MERCED MODOC MONO MONTEREY NAPA NEVADA ORANGE PLACER PLUMAS RIVERSIDE SACRAMENTO SAN BENITO SAN BERNARDINO SAN DIEGO SAN FRANCISCO SAN JOAQUIN SAN LUIS OBISPO SAN MATEO SANTA BARBARA SANTA CLARA SANTA CRUZ SHASTA SISKIYOU SOLANO SONOMA STANISLAUS TEHAMA TULARE VENTURA YOLO YUBA
Alameda County CASA CASA of Amador and Calaveras Counties CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta, and Tehama Counties CASA of Amador and Calaveras Counties CASA of Contra Costa County CASA of Del Norte Child Advocates of El Dorado County CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta, and Tehama Counties CASA of Humboldt CASA of Imperial County CASA of the Eastern Sierra CASA of Kern County CASA of Kings County CASA of Mendocino and Lake Counties CASA of Lassen Family Services CASA of Los Angeles CASA of Fresno and Madera Counties Marin CASA CASA of Mariposa County CASA of Mendocino and Lake Counties CASA of Merced County Modoc CASA CASA of the Eastern Sierra CASA of Monterey County Napa CASA Child Advocates of Nevada County CASA of Orange County Child Advocates of Placer County Plumas CASA Voices for Children Riverside CASA Sacramento CASA of San Benito County CASA of San Bernardino County Voices for Children San Diego San Francisco CASA CASA of San Joaquin County CASA of San Luis Obispo County CASA of San Mateo County CASA of Santa Barbara County Child Advocates of Silicon Valley CASA of Santa Cruz County CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta, and Tehama Counties CASA of Siskiyou County CASA of Solano County CASA of Sonoma County CASA of Stanislaus County CASA of Butte, Glenn, Shasta, and Tehama Counties CASA of Tulare County CASA of Ventura County Yolo County CASA Child Advocates of Placer County
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
“
I had hoped I could help a child and perhaps make a difference in their life. But this experience went well beyond what I hoped. I get back tenfold what I give. This experience and calling myself a CASA is a gift I can never repay. — CASA volunteer
”
California CASA Impact Report FY2022/23
33
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Solano
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SOCIAL San Diego
@CALIFORNIACASA @CALIFORNIA.CASA @CALIFORNIACASA @CALIFORNIACASA
www.californiacasa.org
MAILING ADDRESS 3525 Del Mar Heights Rd. #243 San Diego, CA 92130-2122 (510) 663-8440 info@californiacasa.org
California CASA is a member of the National CASA/GAL Association for Children. This publication was supported by funding awarded by the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Victim Assistance Formula Grant Program (KR22 05 1805) through the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES).
Imperial