What Is a Court Appointed Special Advocate? A CASA is a Court Appointed Special Advocate, someone who stands up for the children who otherwise are unable to voice their needs themselves. Imagine the experience of children who are removed from their home, their family, their siblings, and everything they know and care about. They find themselves in a world filled with social workers, lawyers, judges, and courtrooms where life-altering decisions are made on their behalf. Heartland CASA recruits, trains, and supports community volunteers who advocate on behalf of abused and neglected children in our community. CASA volunteers build relationships with the children they advocate for, by meeting regularly with them. As they get to know their CASA children, they make observations and write reports directly to the judge with recommendations for the child's best interests. CASA volunteers come from every walk of life and share a commitment to improving children's lives, a willingness to learn and an open mind towards life experiences different from their own. No special education, experience or background is needed.