Judges’ perceptions of the Nebraska CASA program

This article discusses judges’ perceptions of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) programs in the rural state of Nebraska, as reported in two online surveys. The goal of CASA is “to train and support volunteers in advocating for safe and permanent homes for abused and neglected children” (CASA for Children, 2013). One survey investigated the opinions of judges presiding in Nebraska counties that did not yet have a local CASA program; another was administered to judges in counties that did have a CASA program. Data from both surveys were analyzed separately and then compared to provide information regarding judges’ satisfaction with local programs and general perceptions of Nebraska CASA programs. Results contain a hopeful tone for the Nebraska CASA Association and their goal of providing every child a voice by 2020 and provide vital information for program growth. This study could inform other states’ CASA programs seeking similar information to guide program growth