In September 2025, the Sunset Advisory Commission began the two-year Sunset review process for 16 state agencies, including two critical to children and families: the Department of Family and Protective Services (DFPS) and the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). Sunset review is an opportunity for the Sunset Advisory Commission and the Texas Legislature to evaluate a state agency’s programs, rules, operations, and success in fulfilling its mission, as well as address any identified issues.

Based on local CASA program feedback, Texas CASA’s Public Policy team developed the following recommendations focused on DFPS:

• Clarify and strengthen understanding of CASA’s legal role in cases 
• Strengthen the consistency and enforcement of DFPS oversight of Community-Based Care providers
• Increase transparency and quality in CPS investigations and records access 
• Address workforce turnover through training, culture, and support 
• Expand and stabilize placement capacity statewide 

Continued Impact of Clergy, CASA & Community

Clergy, CASA & Community is a Texas CASA initiative designed to connect faith communities and clergy leaders in advocating for children and families involved in foster care. Now implemented by 40 local programs across Texas, the goal of this initiative is to unite communities and clergy leaders in living out their calling by advocating for children in need, while building a strong network that inspires new volunteers and supporters to join the CASA mission. Read about noteworthy 2025 achievements from Clergy, CASA & Community, and the meaningful impact of this initiative at the link below.

Local Program Spotlight: CASA of Travis County

Originally published by National CASA in recognition of the outstanding work of CASA of Travis County, this story is about two sisters who had spent years in foster care before recently reconnecting with important family members. While CASA of Travis County was reviewing old case records, volunteers noticed the girls had once mentioned two grandpas by nickname, showing they were cherished connections from before entering care. Through persistent research and outreach, both grandfathers were located nearby and eager to be involved.

Today, one of the sisters is actively spending time with her grandpa — a powerful reminder of how meaningful restored family connections can be. This story highlights the vital role CASA volunteers play in helping children in foster care maintain ties to their roots, identity, and sense of belonging. By listening, searching, and advocating, volunteers help ensure every child has someone standing beside them.

Staff Spotlight: Lindsey Lee, Campaign Marketing & Media Manager

Lindsey has been with Texas CASA for 9.5 years, celebrating 10 years this September! She was first introduced to CASA through a former Texas CASA employee, and she was immediately struck by the passion, compassion, and expertise that every staff member brings to the work. While she didn’t know much about CASA or the child welfare space when she first stepped into her role, it didn’t take long for her to develop a wholehearted commitment to advocating for children and supporting the volunteers and programs that work directly with the families CASA serves.

Texas CASA Conference Call for Presenters

Do you have strategies, tools, or lessons learned that could inspire and strengthen CASA programs across Texas? If so, we invite you to share your experience at the 2026 Texas CASA Conference! Our annual conference convenes a dynamic audience of CASA staff, volunteer advocates, board members, and child welfare partners. Together, they are united by one goal: improving outcomes for children and families.

When: September 9-11, 2026

Where: San Marcos, Texas

Submit proposals by March 31

Read submission guidelines and apply below.

United in Advocacy: Thank You to Our Corporate Partners 

We’re honored to partner with many generous corporations that stand with Texas CASA and share our belief in the power of advocacy. Their support and generosity lift our mission and expand what’s possible for Texas children and families experiencing foster care. We are truly grateful for their partnership, and together, we’re building a stronger, more responsive system for Texas children and families.

To get involved, connect with us at partnerships@texascasa.org. 

🛎️ Monthly Giving Tip

Becoming a monthly donor provides consistent support that helps Texas CASA plan ahead, advance public policy work, and equip local CASA programs across the state with the tools they need to help children and families experiencing the foster care system. 

Learn more about giving to Texas CASA here. 

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