In accordance with the 2024 Appropriation Act, the Virginia Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) convened a work group focused on identifying any judicial districts in the Commonwealth of Virginia where no local Court-Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program has been established and determining the feasibility, including analyzing any obstacles, of requiring the establishment of a local CASA program in every judicial district. The work group must report its findings and recommendations to the Governor and the General Assembly by November 1, 2024.

The work group convened on July 10, 2024, in Richmond, Virginia. Prior to meeting, the work group was provided with comprehensive written materials, including an overview of CASA program history, current operations, and relevant data to foster a shared understanding of CASA program operations among participants.

There are 27 operational CASA programs in the Commonwealth. Twenty-four are nonprofit organizations, and of those, eight are under an umbrella nonprofit organization which provides other types of services to children, families, and individuals. The remaining 16 programs are stand-alone CASA nonprofit organizations. Three CASA programs are administered by a government agency.

There are 31 judicial districts in the Commonwealth. Of those, 19 are completely served by CASA programs. In eight, some but not all courts are served. There is one judicial district where a local CASA program has been established in only one court. There are three judicial districts where no local CASA program has been established. In total, there are 38 courts without services from a local CASA program.

Led by DCJS staff, the meeting included presentations and discussions aimed at examining the potential for CASA program expansion. Participants identified emergent themes, assessed the need for additional information, and leveraged their diverse experiences to highlight priority areas critical to the expansion of CASA programs in Virginia.

Findings and Recommendations

The work group concluded that requiring the establishment of local CASA programs in every judicial district is not feasible. Further, the group identified obstacles that informed the conclusion in the following areas.

Independence of Program Model: There is a need for flexibility in program implementation to suit local community needs.

Funding Challenges: Adequate financial resources at multiple levels (state, local, and donor) are essential for the sustainability of CASA programs.

The Volunteer-Based Nature of CASA Programs: Adequate number of trained volunteers is crucial for program effectiveness.

Judicial Support: Judicial support is crucial for program effectiveness.

Public Awareness and Education: Addressing misconceptions about CASA programs will improve community engagement and support.