#United States #Burlingame #Advocacy #Foster Care #California CASA

California CASA Recognizes Championing Advocates

At the recent California CASA Association's annual conference, a notable event took place to honor the remarkable efforts of Assemblymembers Rhodesia Ransom and Mia Bonta. Both members were celebrated with the California CASA Leadership in Action Award, a recognition that underscores their unwavering commitment to improving the lives of children in foster care across the state. This event, held in Burlingame, California, gathered nearly 300 participants from across the CASA network, highlighting the importance of advocacy in shaping policies that impact vulnerable youth.

A Commitment to Change

The California CASA Association, founded in 1987, is dedicated to serving a network of 44 local CASA programs throughout California. The core mission has always been to ensure that every child in the foster care system has a voice and an advocate by their side. Assemblymember Rhodesia Ransom, who represents the 13th Assembly District, has been a formidable force in public service for over 20 years. Her advocacy focuses on social justice, equitable access to education, and economic empowerment. In her recent collaboration with CASA, she championed Assembly Bill 741, aimed at enhancing safety measures for children in foster care. This significant piece of legislation has gained momentum, successfully passing through both the Assembly and Senate and is now pending the governor’s approval.

On the other hand, Assemblymember Mia Bonta, representing the 18th Assembly District, is known for her innovative approaches to policy-making. She has continuously worked to improve the communities she serves and has been especially vocal in supporting CASA volunteers and the 44 programs statewide that California CASA champions. Earlier this year, alongside Ransom, she played a part in declaring February 6, 2025, as CASA Appreciation Day, further raising awareness about the crucial work CASA volunteers undertake.

Elevating the Advocacy

During the awards ceremony, Sharon M. Lawrence, Esq., CEO of California CASA, emphasized the importance of the award recipients' actions. She stated, “Through their leadership and fearless advocacy, Assemblymembers Ransom and Bonta have elevated the visibility of CASA volunteers statewide, championing the critical role they play in the lives of children in foster care and juvenile justice.” Their dedication not only highlights the desperately needed support for these children but also motivates other leaders to recognize and promote the essential services that organizations like CASA provide.

Lawrence noted that, thanks to the efforts of advocates like Ransom and Bonta, more youth will have access to a dedicated advocate, which is vital during their most challenging times. The appreciation for their work serves as an inspiration for others to follow in their footsteps, leading initiatives that focus on children and families.

Looking Forward

The California CASA Association continues its mission to provide training, resources, and advocacy for local CASA programs. As a private 501(c)(3), it has operated with the belief that every child deserves to be heard. This notion is not just a motto but a call to action that encourages community engagement in fostering our most vulnerable populations. With the backing of dedicated lawmakers like Ransom and Bonta, CASA's commitment to addressing the unique needs of children in the foster care system remains strong.

For further details about California CASA and its initiatives, you can visit www.californiacasa.org. Ensuring that every child has the chance to thrive is a responsibility that falls not only on the government but on all of us as a community.

The recognition of Ransom and Bonta also serves as a reminder of the power of advocacy and the impact that dedicated leaders can have in transforming policies for the betterment of society. As California and its programs continue to evolve, the support provided by legislators remains an integral part of fostering a bright future for children in need.