Change a Child’s Story.
In courtrooms across Luzerne and Wyoming Counties, there are children whose futures hang in the balance. They have experienced abuse or neglect. They may be unsure where they will live, where they will go to school, or who will speak on their behalf.
That’s where CASA of Wyoming Valley steps in.
A Voice When It Matters Most
The mission of CASA of Wyoming Valley is simple, yet powerful: to recruit, train, and support community volunteers to serve as the voice of abused and neglected children in the court system—so they can be safe, secure, and given the opportunity to thrive.
A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is not an attorney and not a caseworker. They are trained community volunteers appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of a child. These advocates take the time to truly understand a child’s story—their history, needs, challenges, and hopes—so they can make informed recommendations to dependency judges about permanent placement and critical services such as educational support, mental health care, physical health needs, and more.
The mission of CASA of Wyoming Valley is simple, yet powerful: to recruit, train, and support community volunteers to serve as the voice of abused and neglected children in the court system—so they can be safe, secure, and given the opportunity to thrive.
Sometimes the most powerful thing a child can have is one consistent adult who shows up.
From Local Roots to Regional Reach
Originally established in 2013 as CASA of Luzerne County, the organization expanded in July 2024 to include Wyoming County, becoming CASA of Wyoming Valley Member Spotlight CASA. This growth reflects both community need and organizational strength.
Today, CASA of Wyoming Valley is part of the broader National CASA network, with over 1,000 programs nationwide, all united by the same goal: ensuring children’s voices are heard in court.
In 2025 alone:
33 children achieved permanency
47 advocates served 59 children
Behind each number is a child who now has greater stability, safety, and hope.
Breaking the Myths About Volunteering
One of the biggest misconceptions about becoming a CASA volunteer? That it requires an overwhelming time commitment or a background in social work.
In reality, volunteers typically dedicate 8–10 hours per month to a case. This includes monthly visits with the child and court hearings about every three months.
No prior experience is required training is provided, and every advocate is paired with an Advocate Coordinator for ongoing guidance and support. You don’t have to be an expert. You just have to care.
Community Powered, Community Supported
CASA’s impact is fueled entirely by community compassion. From volunteer advocates and board members to event committees and business sponsors, local support drives the mission forward.
Get involved! Upcoming opportunities
- Advocate Training (beginning March 11) A 9-week virtual session designed to equip volunteers with the tools they need to serve successfully.
- Kids Discovery Day (June 6, 10 AM–1 PM at the JCC) A family-friendly event featuring a Touch-a-Truck experience and community health fair. Sponsorships and vendor spots are available.
- Annual fundraising events, including a forthcoming GALA.
For Chamber members and local businesses, partnership with CASA offers a meaningful way to invest in the future of the community —because when children thrive, communities thrive.
What Inspires the Work
At the heart of CASA of Wyoming Valley is a belief that fuels everything they do:
When children are given an opportunity to thrive, they will.
This conviction inspires the team to continue advocating for safe, permanent, loving homes and the support children need to become healthy, empowered adults. And perhaps the most important thing for Wyoming County residents to know? CASA is now actively serving children here—and they are looking for volunteers in both Luzerne and Wyoming Counties.
Change a Child’s Story
It’s more than a motto. It’s a call to action.
To learn more or get involved, visit www.luzernecasa.org, follow CASA of Wyoming Valley on social media.
Ryan Schofield, Executive Director
rschofield@luzernecasa.org
or 570-855-2247
