RIVERSIDE, CA — Voices for Children is calling on compassionate men in Riverside County to become volunteer Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) for boys in foster care. About 49% of the 5,900 children in foster care in Riverside County are boys, but only 17% of CASA advocates are male. Currently, 55 boys await advocates, with new children entering the system daily. The need is especially urgent for men of color, bilingual individuals, and residents in rural areas.CASA volunteers focus on one or two children at a time, building trusting relationships and working with social workers and caregivers to ensure children’s needs are met. Boys benefit significantly from positive male influences, which research shows can improve outcomes like academic success and emotional resilience.
