March 13, 2019
March is National Social Worker Month, and all of us at CASA of Merced County want to extend our deep gratitude to all of the child welfare social workers of Merced County.
As the director of the CASA of Merced County, I oversee our Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers who are independent, sworn officers of the court, appointed to investigate a foster child’s circumstances and advocate for the child’s best interests. Our CASAs see how skillfully social workers do a very difficult job supporting children and families in the child welfare system. Together, we are a team, ensuring that the judge has the most up-to-date information to make life-altering decisions for the family and that the child receives all of the services and support he or she needs.
We see first-hand how the Merced County Human Services Agency social workers juggle multiple cases, work in high stress circumstances with families and individuals coping with serious health and legal issues and stand on the front lines keeping children safe and ensuring children and families have the resources they need to heal.
Social workers deserve our recognition and support not just during this month but every day.
Sincerely,
Cathie Lancaster
Executive Director, CASA of Merced County
209-722-2272
