Myths vs. Facts: What People Get Wrong About CASA and Foster Care

Caitlin Whitehead • October 3, 2025

Clearing up common misconceptions about CASA, foster care, and why community support during the Big Give makes a real difference.


At Prairie Plains CASA, we often hear questions and assumptions about what we do, who we serve, and how the foster care system works—especially in rural areas like ours. As we gear up for the Southwest Nebraska Big Give on November 6, 2025, we're taking this opportunity to clear up a few common misconceptions and share how your support makes a direct impact on children in our community.


 Myth #1: CASA is part of Child Protective Services (CPS).

Fact: CASA is independent.
CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge, not hired by CPS. They are neutral advocates who work alongside—yet independently from—caseworkers, attorneys, and other professionals. Their sole job is to ensure a child’s best interest is being considered at every step.


 Myth #2: CASA volunteers need legal or social work backgrounds.

Fact: CASA volunteers are trained, everyday people.
Volunteers come from all walks of life. What they have in common is a heart for kids and a desire to stand up for those who can’t always speak for themselves. We provide all the training they need—and ongoing support to guide them.


 Myth #3: Foster kids already get everything they need through the system.

Fact: Many children enter foster care with nothing.
They often arrive at placements with only the clothes on their backs—or worse, with their belongings in a trash bag. Essentials like toothbrushes, pajamas, books, stuffed animals, and backpacks aren’t luxuries—they’re basic needs that help a child feel safe, comforted, and seen.


That’s where our Big Give 2025 project comes in.  I Am for the Child, and I Give Hope

This year, your donation helps us provide:

  • Emergency Comfort Bags for children entering foster care
  • Court Day Kits to reduce anxiety during legal proceedings
  • Support for Kinship Families who take in children on short notice
  • A trauma-informed visitation space where families can safely reconnect
  • Volunteer recruitment and training so no child goes unheard in court


 Why Big Give Matters

The Southwest Nebraska Big Give is a one-day opportunity to rally our region around causes that matter. This year, we aim to raise $15,000–$18,000 to support the resources outlined above and continue our mission of standing by every child who needs a voice.

When you give on November 6, you’re not just donating—you’re giving dignity, comfort, and hope to a child in crisis.

 How You Can Help

  • Donate online between midnight and midnight on November 6
  • Share our campaign on Facebook and Instagram
  • Encourage friends and family to give—even $25 can fill a comfort kit
  • Tell people why you’re for the child


Let’s bust myths, spread facts, and show the children of Southwest Nebraska that they are never alone.

👉 Visit our Big Give page here: https://swnebiggive.org/nonprofits/prairie-plains-casa


#IAmForTheChild #BigGive2025 #GiveHopeCASA #FosterCareFacts


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By Caitlin Whitehead • October 30, 2025
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Gracies Story

By Caitlin Whitehead • March 24, 2025
Gracie’s journey to healing and hope with a CASA volunteer by her side. For some children, a smile, a laugh, or even a glimmer of happiness is difficult to come by. Eight-year-old Gracie* is one of those children—and no one would blame her after hearing the story of what she’s been through. From a very young age, Gracie was exposed to countless instances of domestic violence. Her parents’ relationship was tumultuous, further complicated by drug and alcohol abuse. At seven years old, the court determined that Gracie was not safe in her home and placed her into a foster home while her parents worked toward recovery from their addictions and aimed to rebuild their parenting and relationship skills. CASA volunteer Brenda* immediately began advocating for Gracie, and it quickly became clear that Gracie was a deeply stoic child—the type of child that Brenda had never encountered in over 10 years of volunteering with CASA of Santa Barbara County . It was a challenge: how could Brenda help this child experience the happiness and innocence every child deserves? How could she help Gracie simply be a child again? In an effort to bring some joy into Gracie’s life, Brenda gifted her a brand-new backpack and matching water bottle for back-to-school, thanks to generous donors of the CASA program. Gracie’s reaction was a quiet “thank you” before she moved on—no smile, no excitement. Then, Gracie was suspended from school for fighting. Determined to find a way to help, Brenda researched therapeutic options and discovered horse-riding classes, which are often used to help children process trauma. Brenda worked tirelessly to ensure all the necessary paperwork was completed, and Gracie’s first lesson was scheduled. And then, it happened—the moment Brenda had been waiting for. As Gracie interacted with the horses, a sense of awe overtook her. She treated the animals gently, with compassion and care. As she sat atop the horse with a giant smile on her face, it was evident that this was exactly what Gracie needed. For Brenda, seeing Gracie’s transformation was a testament to the power of persistence, love, and hope. It was the beginning of a new chapter in Gracie’s life, one where healing and resilience could take root. Gracie’s journey in foster care is far from over, but there is now hope. Her parents continue working toward reunification, though there are many challenges ahead. Gracie has new tools and an outlet to begin working through her past trauma. Brenda remains committed to advocating for Gracie’s safety and well-being every step of the way. For now, Brenda’s greatest joy is simply seeing Gracie smile—a small but significant sign that healing is possible and that brighter days lie ahead. *Names have been changed to protect privacy. Image is not of actual subjects .