CASA Youth Advocates Receives $50,000 United Way Grant to Strengthen Core Advocacy for Children

Funding will help more children in Delaware and Chester Counties access consistent advocacy, essential services and greater stability

MEDIA, PA — CASA Youth Advocates has received a $50,000 grant from United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey to strengthen its core advocacy program for children and youth involved in the child welfare system in Delaware and Chester Counties.

The grant will support the recruitment, training and supervision of CASA Volunteer Advocates, as well as the case-management infrastructure that makes their individualized advocacy possible. Appointed by judges, CASA advocates build consistent, one-on-one relationships with children and help them navigate the courts, child welfare, education and healthcare systems. Their work helps connect children to necessities and essential resources, including safe placements, healthcare, mental health care, educational accommodations and public benefits.

Demand for this advocacy continues to exceed CASA's capacity. In 2025, the organization served 322 children across 217 cases, yet 32 children remained on a waiting list without an assigned advocate at the end of the year. United Way's investment will help CASA work to close that gap, so more children have a trained adult focused solely on their needs, well-being and long-term stability.

“Every child in the foster and child welfare systems deserves someone who will keep showing up, listen closely and make sure their needs do not get lost between systems,” said Leigh Anne McKelvey, Executive Director of CASA Youth Advocates. “This investment from United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey will strengthen the core of our work recruiting, training and supporting the advocates who help children access critical resources and move toward safety, stability and permanency.”

CASA's core advocacy model aligns with United Way's focus on benefits access and meeting basic needs. CASA advocates coordinate with caseworkers, educators, healthcare providers, caregivers and community organizations to reduce barriers and help ensure children receive the services and supports for which they are eligible. In 2025, CASA volunteers also served as Educational Decision Makers for 164 children, helping secure appropriate school placements, special education services and continuity in learning.

About CASA Youth Advocates

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Youth Advocates empowers community volunteers to advocate for children and youth in the child welfare system, ensuring they have the resources, stability, and support needed to thrive. Serving Delaware and Chester Counties, CASA champions equity and permanency through individualized, court-appointed advocacy. In 2025, CASA served 322 children, with 98% of those under 18 achieving a permanent outcome. Volunteers also supported 164 youth as Educational Decision Makers and helped fulfill 100% of holiday wishes through community partnerships. Beyond direct advocacy, CASA leads coalitions like Voices for Children and Safer Schools Stronger Neighborhoods to drive systemic change. Founded in 1992, CASA continues to be a force for compassion, consistency, and equity in Southeastern Pennsylvania. For more information on CASA visit delcocasa.org.

About United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey

United Way of Greater Philadelphia and Southern New Jersey is on a mission to end poverty and expand opportunity for all. By forging coalitions with business, government, and community organizations, we provide the skills and support people need to rise and remain above the poverty line. Serving Pennsylvania’s Chester, Delaware, Montgomery, and Philadelphia counties, and New Jersey’s Atlantic, Burlington, Camden, Cape May, and Cumberland counties, United Way leads solutions that deliver immediate relief and long-term achievement.