Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
CASA SHaW envisions that every person involved with CASA SHaW feels seen, heard, and acknowledged, and is empowered by our CASA program to be their authentic selves.
Our Values
We strive to continuously improve practices to not inadvertently perpetuate harm that we know is caused by the dependency system. We know that children of color are disproportionately represented in the foster care system. These children are less likely to encounter caseworkers, service providers, lawyers, judges, and CASA volunteers who share their race and ethnicity.
We know that LGBTQ+ youth face discrimination, hostility, and harassment within the foster care system. These individuals experience higher than average rate of suicide.
We know that undocumented children face constant fear of family separation and experience significant barriers to accessing educational, health, and housing services.
These are just a few of the many issues we must take into consideration.
We are committed to strengthening our relationships and building partnerships with people, organizations, and businesses who reflect the diverse identities and cultures of children and families we serve. We believe that bringing more voices to the table to influence our policies and practices will help us provide better advocacy and arrive at better outcomes for youth.
Our Values In All Levels Of Our Work Include
Accountability and transparency
Integrity and commitment
Equity and Equality
Awareness and sensitivity to differences and biases
Kindness, trust, mutual respect and responsiveness
Intentional and proactive inclusivity
Prioritization of the impact of actions over the intention behind them
Amplification of impacted voices, seeking justice and healing
Creation of safe spaces for everyone who comes in contact with our organization
Evolution though continual work and action towards anti-racism
Evaluation and assessment of ongoing progress