Katelyn De La Rosa Aceves
Published: 2021
Total Pages: 23
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Purpose: Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) programs throughout the nation serve the needs of children in the dependency system. Programs train volunteers to advocate for the children they are matched with. This review of CASA programs nationwide will address the gaps in the outcomes of children in the child welfare system who have CASAs by reviewing all published articles and relevant reports of social work online. Methods: Following Preferred Reporting Items (PRISMA) guidelines, five databases were used to search the key terms listed below. Of the 393 records, 26 articles met inclusion criteria. Results: This review revealed gaps in service for minority youth in the dependency system, family challenges, program outcomes, and initiated an evaluation of volunteer burnout and retention. Discussion: CASA programs provide essential advocacy to children in the dependency system through the dedication of volunteers who work with families, child protective services, and the courts in order to improve outcomes for these children once they exit the system.