In Johnson County, Indiana, children navigating the child welfare system often face emotional and physical instability. While many professionals surround them, from judges to caseworkers, there’s one role that offers something uniquely powerful: advocacy. Through CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates), volunteers step in not only to represent a child’s best interest in court but to serve as a steady, trusted advocate.
These children don’t just need legal guidance; they need someone who will listen, show up consistently, and help them feel seen. CASA volunteers provide that emotional connection and personal advocacy that can change a child’s life forever.
Advocating in this role isn’t about grand gestures; it’s about reliability, empathy, and showing a child that they matter. Over time, this consistent presence builds trust and helps children begin to heal.
Children with advocates through CASA often:
In Johnson County, this kind of personal advocacy is a lifeline for children who need not only protection but genuine connection.
A common question we hear is, “How is CASA different from DCS?” The answer is important because both play essential—but very distinct—roles in protecting and supporting children.
The Indiana Department of Child Services (DCS) is a government agency responsible for investigating reports of abuse or neglect, ensuring children's safety, and making decisions about placements, services, and case plans. DCS caseworkers handle multiple cases at once and must follow strict guidelines to fulfill legal requirements.
On the other hand, CASA volunteers are appointed by the court to serve one child or sibling group at a time. They are independent of DCS and provide the court with an unbiased view focused solely on the child’s best interests. While DCS must balance the needs of both the child and the biological parents, CASA advocates are there to speak up just for the child.
Both roles are crucial. DCS ensures safety and enforces policy, while CASA brings a deeply personal level of insight by forming a one-on-one relationship with the child.
In this way, CASA advocates complement, not compete with, DCS. Together, they ensure that both legal safeguards and personal advocacy guide each child’s journey.
As a CASA advocate, you will:
With training provided by CASA of Johnson County, you’ll be equipped to step confidently into this powerful role.
Many volunteers describe the experience as one of the most fulfilling commitments of their lives. Being the reason a child smiles again, starts believing in themselves, or makes it through a tough day—that’s the power of advocacy in action.
There are children in Johnson County right now who are waiting for someone to believe in them. For many, a CASA advocate is the first adult who shows up and keeps showing up—not because they’re paid to, but because they care.
That kind of presence creates a ripple effect of hope.
If you’re looking for a way to make a lasting difference in a child’s life, becoming a CASA volunteer may be the most important step you take.
Apply today to CASA of Johnson County and become an advocate, a voice, and a consistent source of support for a child in need. Together, we can ensure every child has someone in their corner—someone who listens, advocates, and believes in their future.