Benton, IL-(Effingham Radio)- CASA for Kids is proud to announce its expansion into Shelby County and Wabash County, extending critical advocacy services to children experiencing abuse and neglect within both the Second Judicial Circuit and Fourth Judicial Circuit, for a total of now thirteen counties in their service area.
The expansion strengthens CASA for Kids’ ability to serve some of Illinois’ most rural communities, where families often face unique barriers to accessing services and support. By extending its reach, CASA for Kids is ensuring that more children in rural court systems have a dedicated advocate focused on their safety, well-being, and future.
“Children in rural communities deserve the same opportunities, support, and access to advocacy as children anywhere else,” said Diane Simpson, President of the Board of Directors for CASA for Kids. “Expanding into Shelby County and Wabash County reinforces our commitment to ensuring that geography is never a barrier to a child having a voice in court. We are honored to bring CASA’s life-changing advocacy to more communities across southeastern Illinois.”
During Fiscal Year 2026, CASA for Kids served 580 children throughout its service area, spanning eleven counties. The organization’s trained Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers help ensure children’s needs remain at the center of court decisions involving abuse and neglect.
The expansion reflects both the growing need for advocacy services and CASA for Kids’ continued commitment to addressing the challenges faced by rural communities. In many areas, families and children experience limited access to resources, longer travel distances, and fewer support systems. CASA volunteers help bridge those gaps by providing consistent, individualized advocacy and helping connect children to services that support their long-term well-being.
“Our volunteers often travel significant distances to ensure children are seen, heard, and supported,” Simpson said. “Their dedication is a powerful reminder that every child matters, regardless of where they live. As we expand into additional rural communities, we remain focused on building strong local partnerships and recruiting volunteers who understand the strengths and challenges of the communities they serve.”
During this growth CASA for Kids, the organization’s goal remains unchanged: to ensure every child who has experienced abuse or neglect has a caring, trained advocate dedicated to helping them achieve a safe, permanent, and nurturing future.
To learn more about CASA for Kids’ impact and accomplishments during Fiscal Year 2026, view the annual report here:
CASA for Kids Impact Report FY26
For more information about volunteer opportunities, community partnerships, or ways to support CASA for Kids, visit casa4change.org or contact Libby Moeller, Deputy Director.
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