CASA Monroe: Changing a Child’s Story — One Voice at a Time
Monday, February 2nd, 2026 | Uncategorized | Comments Off on CASA Monroe: Changing a Child’s Story — One Voice at a Time
For many children, the courtroom can be a confusing and intimidating place. When abuse or neglect brings a family into the justice system, children often struggle to be heard. That’s where CASA Monroe steps in — providing a consistent, compassionate voice for children who need it most.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) was founded in 1977 in Seattle, Washington, when a judge recognized the need for trained volunteers dedicated to representing the best interests of abused and neglected children in court. Since then, the CASA movement has grown into a nationwide network of programs, each committed to giving vulnerable children a voice, stability, and a better chance for a positive future. CASA Monroe began serving Monroe County, Tennessee, in 2007 and now advocates for approximately 200 children each year, helping ensure they are seen, heard, and supported throughout the court process.
Our Mission: Advocacy, Support, and Hope
At the heart of CASA Monroe’s work is a simple but powerful mission: to provide trained and dedicated volunteer advocates who represent the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are involved in the court system. These volunteers walk alongside children as they navigate the court process, ensuring their needs, hopes, and rights are heard and considered.
Every child deserves a safe, stable, and permanent home — and CASA Monroe’s advocates work tirelessly to help make that a reality. By building trusting relationships and collaborating with social workers, attorneys, judges, and families, CASA volunteers help guide children toward brighter futures.
Who We Are
CASA Monroe is powered by compassionate staff, volunteers, board members, and community partners who believe every child deserves a voice. Together, we work to provide thoughtful advocacy and meaningful support so each child we serve experiences stability, care, and hope for the future.
How You Can Help: Volunteer and Support
Volunteers are the backbone of CASA Monroe. Becoming a CASA Volunteer Advocate is one of the most impactful ways to make a difference:
1. Application and background check.
2. 5 weeks of comprehensive volunteer training – Next training starts on February 3, 2026. Call 423-442-2750 if you’re interested!
3. Case assignment and ongoing support.
Once trained, volunteers are matched with a child’s case and begin representing that child in court, ensuring their voice isn’t lost in the legal process. Through ongoing communication, investigation, and advocacy, CASA volunteers become vital allies to children who would otherwise go unheard.
Not able to volunteer directly? You can still support CASA Monroe through donations, event participation, sponsorships, or spreading awareness within your community. Every contribution — big or small — helps CASA Monroe continue its mission.
Join Us for These Exciting Community Events
CASA Monroe’s mission is substantially supported by community partnerships and fundraising events that bring people together for awareness, fun, and compassion. Two events that highlight both community spirit and fundraising impact are the Superhero 5K in April and the CASA Monroe Rodeo in September.
Superhero 5K — April 25, 2026
CASA Monroe’s Superhero 5K invites the community to come together for a fun, family-friendly event supporting abused and neglected children. Participants of all ages are encouraged to dress as their favorite superheroes — because it often takes a hero to change a child’s story. Feel free to bring your furry friends along to enjoy the race with you!
The race takes place on Saturday, April 25, 2026, in downtown Madisonville and is open to runners and walkers of all levels. With activities, refreshments, and a lively finish-line atmosphere, the Superhero 5K raises awareness for Child Abuse Awareness and Prevention Month while supporting CASA Monroe’s advocacy efforts across Monroe County. To register visit: www.casamonroe.org.
CASA Monroe Rodeo — September 11 & 12
The CASA Monroe Rodeo returns September 11 & 12, 2026, for an exciting weekend of professional rodeo action, family fun, and community pride. Hosted at Legacy Horse Ranch at Rarity Bay in Vonore, the rodeo features bull riding, barrel racing, team roping, live entertainment, great food, and activities for all ages.
Recognized as one of the area’s Top New Rodeos in 2024 and named an IPRA (International Pro-Rodeo Association) Top 5 Outdoor Rodeo in 2025, this event combines thrilling entertainment with meaningful impact. Proceeds support CASA Monroe’s advocacy programs, ensuring children who have experienced abuse or neglect have a dedicated voice during court proceedings.
For those looking for an elevated experience, the rodeo offers a special VIP package, which includes premium parking, seating, exclusive hospitality, food & drink, and behind-the-scenes access, making it a unique way to enjoy the action while supporting CASA Monroe’s mission.
Supporting Families Beyond the Courtroom
CASA Monroe’s impact extends beyond courtroom advocacy. As a certified Child Passenger Safety Fitting Station, CASA Monroe educates parents and caregivers on the importance of child passenger safety. Parents and caregivers receive individualized, hands-on support from a Certified Child Passenger Safety Technician, who checks each child’s car seat for proper fit and installation while providing education to promote safe travel.
In addition, CASA Monroe offers free parenting classes that equip caregivers with practical tools to support positive parenting, strengthen families, and promote safe, stable home environments. These classes also provide education on important topics, including opioid awareness and prevention, helping caregivers navigate challenges that can impact children’s safety and well-being. Together, these services reflect CASA Monroe’s commitment to supporting children and families throughout the community.
A Community United for Children
CASA Monroe continues to grow — thanks to community support, generous partners, and dedicated volunteer advocates. Together, with events like the Superhero 5K and CASA Monroe Rodeo, we raise not only funds but awareness for the hundreds of children affected by abuse and neglect.
From the courtroom to the racecourse, from the arena to everyday life, CASA Monroe strives to ensure that every child has a safe, nurturing, and permanent home — and that their voice is never left unheard.
