News
Lehigh County Courts Encourage Community to Become a CASA Volunteer
April 21, 2026
As part of an ongoing effort to change the lives of children in care, Lehigh County President Judge Douglas Reichley today called on the community to consider volunteering with the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program.
The Lehigh County CASA program recruits, trains and supports volunteers who advocate for the best interests of children involved in the child welfare system. CASA volunteers provide consistent, one-on-one support and help ensure that every child’s needs are clearly communicated in court.
“Children in care often face uncertainty, difficult and unexpected transitions and challenges far beyond what many of us have ever experienced,” said Leigh County President Judge Douglas Reichley.
“Court Appointed Special Advocate program volunteers help to change that reality, one child at a time. These volunteers bring something powerful to a child’s life by providing them with stability and voice.
Despite the positive impact of the CASA program, the level of children in need continues to outpace the number of volunteers available to help.
Children who have experienced abuse and/or neglect often move between schools, foster placements and service providers. CASA volunteers help to bring stability to these children through a focus on building relationships and make recommendations to the court. Training and ongoing support is provided to all volunteers, and no legal or social work background is required. Volunteers typically spend a few hours each month meeting with a child and providing updates to the court.
“When someone shows up consistently for a child in need, advocates for them and helps them see a path to the future, it provides hope and a sense of belonging they may never have experienced,” Reichley said.
“Now more than ever, especially as communities come together to recognize Child Abuse Prevention and Awareness Month, we are hoping our friends and neighbors will see the need for volunteers and lend themselves to being part of the call for help.”
More information about the Lehigh County Court Appointed Special Advocate Program is available on its website. To apply to volunteer visit https://www.lccpa.org/department/casa/VolunteerApplication.pdf
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Media Contact: Stacey Witalec, 717-877-2997