Court Appointed Special Advocates of Bastrop, Fayette and Lee Counties is seeking volunteers to support abused and neglected children.

The details

These volunteers—members of the community who are trained and appointed by judges to represent children in court—are essential in helping those in foster care avoid homelessness, teen pregnancy, unemployment, substance abuse and more, according to CASA.

“They get to know the children and everyone involved in their lives, such as their parents, family, foster parents, teachers and therapists, so that they can make informed recommendations to the court in their best interest,” Valerie Lancaster, director of development for CASA of Bastrop, Fayette and Lee Counties, said in a news release. “They also work to make sure children can safely stay connected to their families and are surrounded by a network of supportive, caring adults.”

Zooming in


Approximately 1,700-2,000 children are reported missing from foster care, and many cases are counted as runaways, according to an annual report from the Department of Family and Protective Services.

The DFPS cited the most frequent reasons children run away from foster care, including:
  • Anger at the foster care system
  • Dissatisfaction with the rules of their placement
  • Desire to be on their own
  • Desire to see their family
“Kids don’t always fully understand the dangers of running away,” Kristi Bauer, executive director of CASA of Bastrop, Fayette and Lee Counties, said in a statement. “They are searching for safety, security and acceptance, and doing what they feel is the only thing in their power to get out of a situation they don’t like.”

Also of note

Residents can access more information about how to become a CASA volunteer online or by calling Rita Codutor, a CASA recruiter and trainer, at 512-409-0771.


“By advocating for them and making sure they have the resources and support they need, we can help fill the gap that drives these kids to leave in the first place,” Bauer said. “They need a CASA volunteer speaking up for them and their best interest.”