Louisiana Volunteers Give Foster Kids a Voice in Court

For thousands of Louisiana children moving through foster care, a caring adult volunteer makes all the difference between feeling invisible and being truly heard.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of the 18th Judicial District serves three parishes with a simple but powerful mission: ensuring every foster child has someone fighting for their best interests in court. These trained volunteers become a steady presence as children face placement changes, new schools, and legal proceedings that can feel overwhelming.

"CASA volunteers are a lifeline for children in foster care," said Kendall Hebert, executive director of CASA of the 18th JDC. "They provide a consistent, caring presence and ensure that children's voices are heard in court and beyond."

Thousands of Louisiana children experience abuse or neglect each year, with many entering a foster care system where stability is hard to find. While social workers juggle heavy caseloads, CASA volunteers focus on just one or two children at a time, getting to know their unique needs and advocating specifically for them.

The organization is using Child Abuse Prevention Month this April to expand its volunteer network across Iberville, Pointe Coupee, and West Baton Rouge parishes. Training is available for community members ready to make a direct impact on a child's life.

The Ripple Effect

When one child gains a consistent advocate, the benefits spread far beyond the courtroom. These volunteers help connect children with needed services, communicate with teachers and doctors, and provide stability during one of the most uncertain times in a young person's life. Their work helps break cycles of trauma and gives kids a real chance at finding permanent, loving homes.

CASA is also partnering with Prevent Child Abuse Louisiana to support families before crisis hits. The collaboration focuses on providing parenting resources and advocating for protective policies, addressing problems at their roots.

Blue pinwheels now dot the tri-parish area, thanks to NextEra Energy Resources' sponsorship, symbolizing communities united against child abuse. Each pinwheel represents a commitment to protecting the region's most vulnerable children.

Community members can become CASA volunteers or access family support resources through the organization's website, turning awareness into action that changes young lives.