San Antonio, August 18, 2025
News Summary
This week, San Antonio celebrated the swearing-in of 24 new advocates by CASA to enhance support for foster children in Bexar County. Led by Judge Charles Montemayor, the ceremony highlighted the commitment of these individuals to address the needs of vulnerable youth. CASA continues to expand its volunteer force, emphasizing the importance of giving children a voice in the welfare system. The event also showcased the strong community support surrounding advocacy efforts.
San Antonio welcomed 24 new advocates this week as CASA (Child Advocates San Antonio) held a ceremonial swearing-in. This milestone event enhances CASA’s mission to support foster children within the welfare system of Bexar County. The new advocates, who have committed to addressing the specific needs of vulnerable children, were led in taking the CASA oath by Bexar County Children’s Court Judge Charles Montemayor.
CASA welcomes approximately 10 new classes of advocates annually, illustrating the organization’s continuous efforts to bolster its volunteer force. The newly inducted advocates will play a crucial role in ensuring that the best interests of children in foster care are prioritized during critical legal proceedings.
Among the 24 new advocates was Sheri Teal, who recently retired from a career in education. Teal expressed her strong desire to provide assistance to children, highlighting her sense of calling to serve this particular demographic. Equally motivated, Carlos Gonzalez, one of the new advocates, shared his recognition of the importance of building meaningful connections with vulnerable youth. Additionally, Rachel Jasso, another newly sworn-in advocate, voiced her commitment to supporting children who often go unnoticed, drawing from her experience of 31 years in the educational field.
Angie White, the CEO of CASA, acknowledged the high expectations placed upon new advocates. She noted that the commitment required from advocates is significant, as they give emotionally while also receiving much in return from the children they support. This reciprocal relationship is essential for fostering growth and development in these young individuals navigating the foster care system.
The swearing-in ceremony also allowed family members of the new advocates to attend, creating a supportive environment that emphasized the community aspect of their volunteer work. This camaraderie underscores the collaborative effort required to address the gaps in the foster care system and to advocate effectively for children’s rights and well-being.
CASA’s mission goes beyond individual cases. The organization seeks to ensure that every child’s voice is heard and acknowledged in court. Their advocates work diligently to fill the often-overlooked gaps within the system, advocating on behalf of children who face unstable living conditions and a lack of support. Every advocate adds to CASA’s efforts to safeguard children’s interests and promote their welfare.
Individuals interested in becoming advocates for children in foster care are encouraged to visit CASA’s official website for more information. Through training and advocacy, volunteers can make a significant difference in the lives of vulnerable children in San Antonio.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is CASA?
CASA stands for Child Advocates San Antonio, an organization dedicated to supporting children in the foster care system through volunteer advocates.
What do CASA advocates do?
CASA advocates work to represent the best interests of foster children, ensuring their voices are heard in legal and social contexts.
How many advocates does CASA initiate each year?
CASA typically welcomes around 10 new classes of advocates each calendar year, constantly expanding its volunteer base.
How can I become a CASA advocate?
Interested individuals can learn more about becoming a CASA advocate by visiting the official CASA website for details on training and volunteer opportunities.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Number of New Advocates Sworn In | 24 |
| Annual Classes | Approximately 10 |
| Led by | Bexar County Children’s Court Judge Charles Montemayor |
| CEO | Angie White |
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Additional Resources
- KENS5: CASA Advocates Sworn In
- Wikipedia: Child Advocate
- News 4 San Antonio: Child Advocates San Antonio
- Google Search: CASA San Antonio
- KSAT: CASA CEO on Funding
- Google Scholar: CASA Advocacy
- Express News: CASA Volunteers
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Foster Care
- San Antonio Magazine: CASA Advocacy Journey
- Google News: CASA San Antonio
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The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
