Brandi Red Cloud (CASA Staff, Mission Support Coordinator), Emma LaPlante (CASA Volunteer/former staff-Advocacy Program Manager), Xavier Jones (Staff, Advocacy Program Manager), Delilah Munsell (Staff, Administrative Assistant), Bailey Johns (Executive Director)
When children are removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect, they enter foster care through the court system. They receive legal representation, but not an adult who is dedicated solely to advocating for their wellbeing.
Since 1986, volunteers through the Seventh Circuit Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program have been that presence for kids across Pennington, Fall River, and Custer counties. As the Black Hills grows, so is the need for volunteers. Right now, there are children in all three counties who need a CASA volunteer but do not have one.
In 2027, CASA will run a volunteer recruitment campaign supported by a $50,000 Community Action Grant from the Black Hills Area Community Foundation.
“Too few people in our community understand what CASA is, what our volunteers do, or how they can help.”
Bailey Johns, Executive Director of Seventh Circuit CASA
In 2024, children assigned to a CASA volunteer spent an average of three fewer months in State custody than those without one. The trained volunteers show up consistently to understand their appointed child’s needs and wishes. They report to the judge at each hearing, and regularly talk with attorneys, caseworkers, teachers, and foster families to make sure everyone is working together for the child’s best interests.
Children who have experienced abuse or neglect are still just kids, with hobbies, friends and gifts to share with their communities. CASA volunteers see each child for who they are and advocate for the whole person, not just their case.
Throughout 2027, CASA will spread the word about its programs at community events such as fairs, rodeos, pow wows, and sporting events. Beyond recruiting volunteers, they hope to help people understand why the community needs to stand behind court-appointed children.
“Most of us can look back at our childhood and remember an adult who made us feel seen, heard and important. Becoming an advocate is taking initiative to be that adult for a child that may not have that experience otherwise. Every child deserves someone who refuses to give up on them. That person can be you, you can be the one who shows up and helps instill resiliency in our future.”
Bailey Johns, Executive Director of Seventh Circuit CASA
Black Hills residents who are 21 years of age or older can apply to become an advocate.
To get involved, visit casaofrapidcity.org and fill out a volunteer application. “If there are questions about the role of a CASA, we have an open-door policy at the office, swing by drink some coffee with us and get to know where you can make a difference. Anyone can call the office with questions as well,” Johns said.