Berks County CASA Services Remain Fully Operational Despite National Funding Cuts

By Nancy McCullar

CASA of Berks County (Court Appointed Special Advocates) assures the community that the recent termination of federal funding to the National CASA/GAL Association will not impact its local operations. While National CASA has suspended services and support to all state and local programs, CASA of Berks County remains financially independent and fully operational.

“As an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, CASA of Berks County governs its own budget, fundraising, and day-to-day operations,” said Nancy McCullar, Executive Director of CASA of Berks County. “We are not reliant on National CASA for funding or oversight.”

CASA of Berks County receives its primary support from local grants, community contributions, United Way of Berks County, and state funding administered through PA CASA. Importantly, the role of CASA in Pennsylvania is codified in state law, and CASA programs benefit from broad support from the Pennsylvania General Assembly and the Governor’s Office. Since 2022, CASA affiliates in Pennsylvania have benefited from dedicated state funding — ensuring program stability and growth.

The Ongoing Need for Advocacy in Berks County

While the number of children in foster care in Berks County has declined to under 300, nearly 7,500 children continue to receive in-home services to address safety and welfare concerns. CASA of Berks County provides trained community volunteers to advocate for children navigating the dependency court system — ensuring their voices are heard during critical decisions.

Berks County Dependency Court relies on CASA’s comprehensive recommendations to guide safe, appropriate outcomes for children. As the need remains great, CASA of Berks County is actively recruiting and training new volunteers to meet growing demand.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of CASA of Berks County. Since its founding, the number of active volunteer advocates has nearly tripled, resulting in a 470% increase in the number of children served.

“With continued community support, we are confident in our ability to grow and meet the needs of vulnerable children in Berks County,” said Nancy McCullar, Executive Director.

About CASA of Berks County

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Berks County is a nonprofit organization that recruits, trains, and supports court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or abandonment. CASA’s mission is to ensure every child has the right to a safe, nurturing, and permanent home.

Learn more or get involved at www.casaberks.org.

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Source: bctv