CASA

             Kappa Alpha Theta proudly supports CASA (Court-Appointed Special Advocates) by holding an annual philanthropic 5K run/walk.  We work hard and look forward to the CASA run every year.  Not only does the event raise thousands of dollars for an amazing cause, it also brings our families and friends together. 

            CASA was started in 1977 by a Seattle judge who wanted to give a voice to kids in the court system that were too young to be assigned an attorney.  There are generally kids who have lost their parents or been taken away from their homes because of abuse, neglect, or poverty.  Many times, the state makes decisions for the kids without being aware of the child’s best interest.  That’s where CASA steps in—CASA trains adult volunteers to represent children in the courtroom.  CASA volunteers get to know the children and come to care for them deeply.  By building this relationship, CASA volunteers discover what the child wants and can advocate for that in court.  CASA has become a huge, nationwide program and anyone over eighteen can volunteer (see www.nationalcasa.org). 

            Unfortunately, thousands of children in Washington alone await representation by a CASA volunteer.  The goal of our philanthropy is to raise more money for CASA and give them the resources they need to train more volunteers and help kids in the court system.  We raise close to $10,000 each year and continue to raise more as the years go on.  Our funds come from our families, friends, and the people in the community through race registration fees and donations.  We also get support from the sponsorship of generous local businesses.  Every year hundreds of people show up for the run/walk and win prices, get free T-shirts, and have a great time!