Brittany (not her real name) came into foster care at age 14 because her mother was a drug addict.  Brittany's dad lived in another state and was an alcoholic.  There were no other family members who were able to take Brittany in.

Enter a CASA:

Brittany had spent a lot of time including some holidays with a close friend and her family (the "Smiths").  Brittany's CASA volunteer interviewed the Smiths and visited their home.  The CASA found the home to be a good one and the relationship between the Smiths and Brittany to be close and loving.

By policy, DFCS (Department of Family and Children Services) is not allowed to place any child who is in state custody with a family who is not related to the child.  CASA can recommend any home where the family has a long-term, continuing relationship with the child. 

At the hearing where the Judge decides about custody for the child, Brittany's CASA recommended that the Smiths be given custody of Brittany.  The Judge heard the testimony of all the witnesses and read the CASA's report.  He gave custody of Brittany to the Smiths for two years. 

Brittany was very happy that she would be in a loving home with people she cared about.  In the meantime, Brittany's mom is required to take periodic drug tests and to work on the plan set out by DFCS.  As of this writing, she is not working on the plan, so it is likely that Brittany will remain with the Smiths.  Brittany's CASA sees Brittany monthly to make sure she is doing well.

PERMANENCY IS SO IMPORTANT IN A CHILD'S LIFE.  It helps that child to truly be a child and to grow and blossom into a happy adult.