Concord, CA– CASA Contra Costa County*, dedicated to providing programs to support abused and neglected children in foster care, is currently expanding the role of its CASA Volunteer Advocates to now serve youth involved with the juvenile justice system.
This expansion is a significant step towards ensuring that all vulnerable youth receive the support and guidance they need during their most critical moments. By bridging the gap between the juvenile justice system and the organization’s resources, CASA Volunteer Advocates will provide comprehensive care for these young individuals, advocating for their best interests in court, the community, and school settings. CASA CCC is the only organization in Contra Costa County providing these services to the youth.
CASA Volunteer Advocates will offer independent, factual information to the court about the youth, providing valuable insights that contribute to informed decision-making. Moreover, the Advocates will play a crucial role in supporting the child’s life, their family, and their team, working collaboratively to identify and eliminate barriers to achieve desired outcomes for the youth.
The desired outcomes for the youth include achieving compliance with and successful completion of probation requirements, improving school attendance and performance, and fostering a greater sense of self-confidence. CASA Volunteer Advocates will help these young people to overcome challenges and unlock their full potential.
To ensure the highest standards of care and expertise, CASA Volunteer Advocates assigned to work with juvenile justice-involved youth will have successfully completed CASA CCC’s comprehensive initial training, supplemented by specialized sessions focused on juvenile justice matters. This additional training will equip the Volunteer Advocates with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the unique circumstances and challenges faced by youth in the juvenile justice system.
CASA CCC’s new Juvenile Justice Program Coordinator, Caity Kinnick, will lead this groundbreaking program. Ms. Kinnick holds a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice and a master’s degree in human services. She will oversee the successful execution of the program, ensuring that it aligns with CASA CCC’s mission and vision.
CASA CCC is excited about its expansion to support youth in the juvenile justice system. By extending its support network, CASA CCC is better positioned to guide these young individuals towards a brighter future. All interested individuals are welcome to join in this critical mission.
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About CASA Contra Costa County: CASA Contra Costa County is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering and supporting foster youth. Through its comprehensive programs and dedicated Volunteer Advocates, CASA CCC strives to ensure that every foster youth receives the care, guidance, and opportunities they deserve. Together with volunteers, supporters, and community partners, the agency is committed to creating a brighter future for vulnerable youth.
