Voices for Children Volunteers Support Foster Youth as School Year Begins

As students return to school across the Coachella Valley, not every child walks into the classroom with a parent or guardian by their side. For hundreds of children in the foster care system, the new academic year begins with uncertainty. But for many, support is just a volunteer away — thanks to the Voices for Children organization.

Thousands of children are expected to be part of the foster care system in Riverside County this year. Many of them will experience dramatic shifts in their living environments, schools, and emotional well-being. Voices for Children steps in by providing trained volunteers, known as CASAs — Court Appointed Special Advocates — who serve as consistent mentors and legal advocates.

“Unfortunately, they don’t always have a stable, consistent adult in their lives,” says one Voices for Children representative. “They often get removed from their homes and placed in unfamiliar environments. That’s where CASA volunteers make an impact.”

CASA volunteers are paired with a single child or group of siblings and may even have the legal authority to make educational decisions for the child. Bilingual volunteers like Robert Wesca, who has been with the program for six years, say the work is challenging but deeply rewarding.

“It’s not just about showing up. It’s about showing up consistently,” says Wesca. “The growth is sometimes slow, but when you see a child proud of their own progress — that moment can shape the rest of their life.”

Voices for Children is actively seeking more volunteers, especially as the school year begins. Those interested can visit speakupnow.org to register for an upcoming information session.

Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.