Court appointed special advocates program

Our court appointed special advocates program places trained volunteers with children in foster care across the 16th Judicial District. CASA of the 16th JDC coordinates child advocacy services in Louisiana so each child has a consistent voice in court in St. Martin, Iberia, St. Mary Parishes, and surrounding areas. Volunteers meet children where they are, visit homes and schools, and prepare concise recommendations that help judges make informed decisions.

How the CASA Program Works from Assignment to Permanency

Judges assign CASA of the 16th JDC to individual cases, often for a child or sibling group.

After assignment, a trained advocate meets the child, caregivers, teachers, doctors, and caseworkers to build a full picture of needs.

The advocate writes reports for each court date with recommendations on services, placement, and next steps.

Volunteers attend hearings in New Iberia and parish courts and stay on the case until it closes, providing stability through school moves and placement changes.

To see next steps after learning how the process functions, review volunteer training details or explore success stories that show outcomes for children in our region.

Who we serve across Iberia, St. Martin, and St. Mary

CASA of the 16th JDC serves children from birth to age 18 under court protection in Iberia Parish, St. Martin Parish, and St. Mary Parish. Many have experienced trauma and multiple placements, and some need help securing counseling, school supports, or medical care. Our advocates listen first, visit regularly, and coordinate with schools in places like Loreauville and Breaux Bridge to make sure a child’s educational and health needs are not overlooked.

Training and support for every advocate

All advocates complete structured CASA volunteer training before taking a case, then continue learning with annual education hours. Each volunteer works with a staff supervisor who helps with report writing, court preparation, and connections to community resources. CASA of the 16th JDC welcomes adults from all backgrounds who can commit steady time and compassion. If you want a direct way to help local kids in New Iberia and nearby neighborhoods, consider becoming a CASA volunteer or read how CASA works in more depth on our program overview.

Group of volunteers in blue vests giving a high-five, smiling in a park.
Woman in blue volunteer shirt holds a red heart, smiling outdoors with other volunteers.
People stacking hands together, signifying teamwork and unity.

Working with the full child welfare team

CASA advocates collaborate with social workers, attorneys, foster parents, teachers, therapists, and service providers to present a complete picture to the court. Judges rely on concise reports that highlight strengths, risks, and practical next steps. When gaps appear, such as a missed evaluation or lack of school records, advocates help move services forward by calling schools, following up with providers, and coordinating with caseworkers.

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Results that matter for children and families

Our goal is a safe, permanent home for every child, whether through reunification, adoption, or kinship care. CASA of the 16th JDC tracks outcomes like cases closed to permanency, time in care, and access to services so we can improve training and support. Community support helps us serve more children each year. If you are ready to help us reach more families across the 16th Judicial District, you can make a donation or learn about events that fund volunteer training.

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