Almost half of Orange County children in foster care are boys, yet only 15% of Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are men. While a male youth may be successfully matched with a male or female CASA, research has shown that if they have a consistent, positive male influence in their life, they have better outcomes staying in school, relating with others, demonstrating self-control and abstaining from drug use.
So what better way to identify creative ways to recruit more men than to ask current male CASAs? On a recent evening, CASA OC hosted an evening with the “Men of CASA,” gathering male advocates, board members and case supervisors for dinner and discussion. Participants enjoyed the time sharing their experiences as CASAs while also considering how to recruit more male volunteers into the program.
One of the participants, CASA Ian Thomason said, “It was really cool to see a group of guys who are doing the same thing. It was nice to be in a room with men who are giving back to the community and making a difference.” When asked why he thought it was important to have more male volunteers, he responded, “There’s something different about having a male figure to look up to and maybe relate to a bit more. That relatability maybe adds another layer of trust to a child thinking, ‘Oh man you might really know what I’m going through.’”
Recruitment Manager Tara Dempster said, “This group was a powerhouse for ideas on how we can recruit more male volunteers. CASA board member Paul Takorian has generously offered to host the next meeting with an ambitious target of each participant bringing two male guests. With the energy in the room I have no doubt that they will achieve it!”
Regan Phillips, CASA CEO said, “I am so proud of this initiative and those who have dedicated their time, effort, and energy to making it happen! I love seeing all of these wonderful faces coming together to assist CASA with such an important goal! We are so fortunate to have the very best volunteers and supporters connected to our cause.”
Ian added, “It would also be nice to see both more men and more young people as CASAs. I work two jobs and have a busy life. It’s not really that difficult to be with someone twice a month on the weekend.” If you are interested in learning more about becoming a CASA volunteer, learn more at an upcoming information session. Sign up at http://www.casoc.org/volunteer.