The image used in this article is for illustration only and does not represent actual CASA clients.

Speaking Up for Children

Every child deserves a safe and stable home. They also need someone who will speak up for them. That’s the mission of Court Appointed Special Advocates, or CASA. It’s why United Way of the Chattahoochee Valley proudly funds Twin Cedars’ Chattahoochee CASA program.

Karen Moore has served as a CASA volunteer for nearly eight years. She shows up for the children she serves. She speaks up in court, keeps detailed records, and works closely with everyone involved in a case. Most importantly, Karen never gives up—even when the journey is long.

Her recent work with a group of siblings shows how much one advocate can do.

Real Impact, Real People

Karen doesn’t just check in and move on. She connects with foster families, doctors, teachers, therapists, and DFCS caseworkers. She helps everyone involved understand each child’s unique needs.

When one sibling suddenly went missing, Karen acted fast. She contacted the right agencies to launch a search.

Karen’s work helped three siblings leave foster care after 423 days—just over 14 months. They found stability through guardianship.

Karen had also supported this family in the past. Years earlier, she helped the oldest five siblings find a forever home through adoption. When she learned that three younger siblings entered care, she immediately stepped up to help again.

Karen visited the children regularly. She called, listened, and stayed in constant contact. Her dedication helped move the case forward so the kids could return to family sooner.

Two months after the guardianship was finalized, Karen got another call. The children’s mother had given birth to twins. The newborns were placed in state care. Karen once again stepped in to be their advocate.

Creating a Brighter Future, Together

Through our partnership with Twin Cedars’ Chattahoochee CASA program, United Way is helping ensure that children in foster care receive the support they need to grow and thrive. Trained volunteers like Karen advocate for children’s health, education, and emotional well-being, often during some of the most difficult moments in their lives.

This collective effort reflects United Way’s commitment to Youth Opportunity, ensuring every child has the tools to succeed in school and beyond. It also strengthens Community Resiliency by offering steady, compassionate support to families facing trauma and uncertainty.

And by supporting guardianship, adoption, and long-term stability, the CASA program contributes to Financial Security, helping break the cycle of crisis and create a path toward a better future.

United Way in Action

When you give to United Way, you’re investing in programs like CASA and people like Karen. Together, we’re making sure every child has someone in their corner, and that no family has to navigate hard times alone.