.jpg?fit=outside&w=1600&h=900)
CASA of Yellowstone County: Standing Beside Children When They Need It Most
CASA of Yellowstone County is part of a nationwide movement that began in the late 1970s when a Seattle judge realized he needed more complete information before making decisions about children in foster care. He invited trained community members to visit children, learn their stories, and report back to the court. That idea grew into a national network of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA), and each CASA program, including Yellowstone County’s, operates as its own nonprofit so it can respond to its community’s unique needs.
CASA of Yellowstone County is inspired by the belief that everyday people can make a life-changing difference. Children in foster care often face instability, uncertainty, and isolation. CASA responds by training community volunteers to become consistent mentors and advocates who show up for a child during one of the most challenging times in their life. With training and support, volunteers bring stability, encouragement, and hope.
The organization has a Memorandum of Understanding with the 13th Judicial District Court, that allows CASA volunteers to access confidential hearings and documents to advocate directly for a child’s wishes and best interests. No other mentorship program in the region operates in this capacity, placing CASA in a uniquely important role within the foster care system.
CASA is especially proud of its mentorship and advocacy model. A caring adult can shift the course of a child’s life by consistently showing up, listening, and supporting them through school, activities, and major decisions. This steady presence reminds a child that they matter and that their voice deserves to be heard.
Many people don’t realize that CASA volunteers do not need legal experience. Volunteers come from all backgrounds and receive extensive training and support from CASA staff. The essential qualifications are compassion, curiosity, and a willingness to stand up for a child’s best interests.
CASA’s culture is defined by compassion, integrity, and a deep belief in the resilience of children and families. The team values meaningful relationships, thoughtful advocacy, and a commitment to creating safe and hopeful futures.
The most rewarding part of CASA’s work is celebrating wins large and small. It may be watching a child begin to trust again, seeing a parent engage fully in treatment, or cheering as a child thrives in school and finds supportive adults in their life. And there is nothing quite like witnessing a family reunified and beginning a new chapter with hope.
CASA’s annual 0.5K Fun “Run” in October has become a cherished community tradition. Families come together for a lighthearted run around the block, complete with donuts, drinks, and costumes, all while raising vital funds to support CASA volunteers and the children they serve.
CASA hopes everyone who learns about their work walks away feeling hopeful and inspired. Every child deserves a trusted adult who will advocate for them, and every community member can make a meaningful difference. Even if volunteering as an Advocate isn’t the right fit, people can help by supporting foster families, hosting awareness events, preparing meals, or donating to CASA’s mission.
The Billings community has been essential to CASA’s growth. With 140 active volunteer Advocates currently supporting more than 250 children, and hundreds of CASA alumni still living locally, the impact is felt across Yellowstone County. CASA is deeply grateful for the community’s generosity and commitment.
One moment that captures CASA’s heart comes from a case involving three young sisters who returned to foster care after a difficult period. Their CASA volunteer, who had previously worked with the family, stepped forward again because she knew the children well. When she encountered the mother in the courthouse elevator, the mother said, “I’m so happy you’re here for my girls!” Today, the mother is working through recovery, and CASA remains hopeful the family will reunify soon.
CASA is continually preparing to welcome new volunteers through training sessions offered four times a year at no cost. These trainings allow more children to be paired with a caring Advocate and ensure each child has a trusted voice in their corner.
CASA of Yellowstone County wants the community to know that anyone can help strengthen the lives of children in foster care. Whether by becoming a volunteer Advocate, donating, hosting a gathering, or spreading awareness, every act of support brings stability, encouragement, and hope to a child who needs it. To learn more or get involved, visit yellowstonecasa.org.
