Removing a child -- or children -- from their home is a big step, and in cases where it's necessary, the intention is that children do not remain in the child protection system any longer than they must. To ensure a case is moving forward, ProKids CASA Volunteers regularly visit children in every environment where they spend significant time: in foster homes and schools as well as medical appointments and visits with family members.
Sometimes at those visits, the CASA Volunteers will find that things are not quite right. The volunteer then talks to the CASA Manager, the staff member who supports the volunteer. If the concerns are serious, the team will approach the caseworker at Hamilton County Job & Family Services -- which is legally responsibly for the child.
When concerns about a parent's ability to engage with their services and safely reunify with their children are valid, the process to grant permanent custody to another party may begin. Although reunification with family of origin is achieved in 60% of cases nationwide, ProKids carefully considers safety and stability when making recommendations.
This year, as a part of the story we are sharing at the Breakfast, you will hear about how ProKids advocated for the stability of three girls, and it unfortunately did not result in reunification with their biological mother. The CASA Volunteer's passionate support helped all the children land in the safe, permanent and nurturing home they needed.
