There is something truly special about coming together in person – uniting behind a shared commitment to improve the lives of children and families in Texas.
Last month in San Marcos, we did just that. Our CASA community gathered to learn, connect, celebrate, and find renewed inspiration for the work ahead. Guided by this year’s theme, Advocacy in Motion: Moving with Purpose and Heart, the conference was a celebration of what makes CASA advocacy so powerful and a reminder of why we each continue to show up for children.
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We welcomed 67 local CASA programs, 24 committed partners, and even had attendees from Oklahoma, New Mexico, South Dakota, Illinois, Kansas, Arizona, and Kentucky! 145 CASA volunteers and 356 program staff and board members filled the halls, shared ideas, and left with meaningful resources to take back to their communities. The energy was truly palpable. Together, we strengthened relationships and explored new ways to support this critical work.
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Texas CASA Releases Legislative Priorities Ahead of the 90th Texas Legislative Session
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As the 90th Texas legislative session approaches, Texas CASA has released its legislative priorities to guide advocacy efforts that impact children and families involved in the child welfare system and in Texas.
These priorities reflect what local CASA programs, staff, and volunteers see every day across the state: where the child welfare system is working, where gaps remain, and what children and families need to move toward safety, stability, and lasting connections.
Developed through months of collaboration among Texas CASA’s Public Policy team, local CASA programs, and volunteers, the priorities provide a shared framework for bringing the CASA Story to the Capitol and helping lawmakers understand the realities facing children and families in communities across Texas.
At the heart of these priorities is a simple goal: Children and families deserve a child welfare system that is strong, responsive, and collaborative enough to meet them where they are and help them move toward stability.
Our priorities for the 90th Texas legislative session are:
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Investing in a Stronger CASA Network and Child Welfare System
- Supporting Families and Strengthening Kinship Care
- Expanding Safe and Stable Placement Options
- Strengthening Collaboration and Accountability
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Supporting Youth Beyond Foster Care
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Local Program Spotlight: CASA of Tarrant County
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Originally shared by CASA of Tarrant County, this story offers a glimpse into the difference a consistent, caring CASA volunteer can make in a child’s life. For Avery and Maya*, their CASA volunteer, Lauren, brought stability, trust, and encouragement during a time of uncertainty. Their story is a reminder that meaningful change often happens through small moments — and through volunteers who continue to show up, listen, and advocate for a child's best interest along the way.
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The Faces of Texas CASA’s Strategic Network Services Team, Part 1
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Behind the scenes at Texas CASA, the Strategic Network Support (SNS) team helps strengthen the statewide CASA network by equipping volunteers and local program staff with the knowledge, skills, and support they need to advocate effectively for children and families. Amanda, Maggie, and Kyron work closely with CASA volunteers, trainers, supervisors, and program directors through training, coaching, resources, and learning opportunities. Their work includes the Sharpening Skills webinar series, CASA on the Go podcast, and CASA College — with 7,160 course completions in FY26!
Get to know Amanda, Maggie, and Kyron at the link below.
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New Podcast Episode: Advocating for Families Impacted by Parental Incarceration with Melissa Carter
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In the latest CASA on the Go episode, Melissa Carter, Clinical Professor of Law and Executive Director of Emory University’s Barton Child Law and Policy Center, explores how parental incarceration impacts children and families involved in the child welfare system. Learn practical strategies for supporting family connections, recognizing bias, and strengthening advocacy.
Listen now for continuing education designed to strengthen your advocacy. Available on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Stitcher and Spotify.
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Celebrating Superior HealthPlan: Our Top Conference Sponsor!
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As we reflect on another successful Texas CASA Conference, we want to extend our heartfelt gratitude to Superior HealthPlan, our Top Sponsor! Their generous support helped create an inspiring event filled with learning, collaboration, community partnership, and a shared commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and families.
Thanks to partners like Superior HealthPlan, conference attendees had the opportunity to connect and strengthen the collective impact of CASA programs across Texas. Their investment in this event reflects a deep commitment to advocacy so children have the support they need!
From all of us at Texas CASA, thank you, Superior HealthPlan, for your unwavering support. Together, we are building stronger communities and brighter futures for Texas children.
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Additional Information of Interest |
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New Texas Committee Takes Closer Look at CPS Investigations | KVUE
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Upcoming Training Opportunity for CASA Volunteers: Sharpening Skills Webinar (October 14)
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Join DFPS for Stand Sunday: A Call to Action for Faith and Community (October 14)
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Q&A with Cynt Marshall, Dallas CASA Volunteer and Former Chief Executive of the Dallas Mavericks
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Survey Finds Extended Foster Care for Young Adults Helps — But Too Few Know It’s an Option | The Imprint
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Kinship Care Helps Keep Children Connected to Family | NewsChannel 10
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If you suspect a child is being abused or neglected, ACT. Call 800-252-5400 or go to txabusehotline.org
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🛎️ Monthly Giving Tip
You can now search for your Donor Advised Fund sponsor directly on our website! You can try out the DAF widget and recommend support to Texas CASA today.
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