We're Teaming Up with CASA to Help Foster Children

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The holidays quickly approach. During this time of year, many people give back to their community. We're here at CASA Hidalgo, located on 1001 South 10th Avenue in Edinburg. Executive Director Diana Almaguer joins us to discuss her charity.

What does CASA stand for? What does CASA do? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. Community volunteers serve as voices for children who've been placed in foster care due to abuse or neglect. Our volunteers speak for the children in court to represent the child's best interests.

If someone wants to become an advocate, what steps should they take? You must be at least 21 years old. Before you apply, you must pass a criminal background check and a sexual offender check. After you submit the application, you have to complete 30 hours of training. You will be sworn in by a judge, and then you will take on one of our cases.

What is an advocate's role? As an advocate, you will follow up with parents, educators, attorneys, and anyone else involved with a child. We need to ensure these kids have everything they need. If there is something missing, you must go to the judge. You make sure these kids don't fall through the cracks just because they are in foster care.

If someone wants to help your nonprofit but can't commit to becoming an advocate, what else can they do for these children? If you cannot become an advocate, organizations help us at events. You can make monetary donations or donate gift cards. We may use the money to help pay for a child to register in a school sport, or buy a new pair of tennis shoes. Any donation from you helps us meet kids' needs.

In addition to making sure each child's needs are met, we provide happiness. The Ryan and Brian Team is teaming up with CASA and hosting a Cards for Kids event on November 5th at Roosevelt's at 7. The event will last from 6 to 8 pm. We will accept gift card donations of $20 or more that will go to the children, and every guest who donates will receive a free drink on us!

This event is the perfect way to kick off the holiday giving season. If you have any questions, give us a call or send us an email. We look forward to seeing you there!