New Mexico Kids Matter Inc.

Being a CASA is not only very personally rewarding in being involved in children's lives, but also critical to ensuring that the trauma they suffered in the past, be it neglect and/or abuse, is not repeated again in the foster care system. The Judges in the 2nd Judicial District Court from my experience really value the CASA recommendations in the reports submitted for cases. As a CASA, you are instrumental in forming a stable, trusting bond with the kids, some of which do not get adopted and move to various foster homes, until they are "emancipated" from the system around 18 yrs of age. What melts my heart and makes me fit this volunteer project into my schedule (I work FT like most folks) is the innocence and trust of these children. They need to know they are loved, if not by their biological parennts, by the CASA and everyone else on the team. This makes a difference in their present lives, and how they will live the rest of it. The local CASA staff is helpful and friendly.