CASA of Central Oregon

10/28/2026

For Bob, being a CASA is about more than advocacy. It is about building a relationship, sharing new experiences, and being someone a young person can count on.

Since becoming a CASA volunteer, Bob has remained committed to the same case, developing a strong connection with the youth he serves. Bob loves introducing them to new activities, spending meaningful time together, and creating opportunities for them to explore their interests and experience something new.

That kind of consistency matters. Thank you, Bob, for continuing to show up with care, encouragement, and a genuine commitment to the youth you serve.

10/26/2026

Every child deserves to feel safe at home.

But for some children, home has been a place of fear, instability, or violence.

During Domestic Violence Awareness Month, CASA of Central Oregon honors survivors and recognizes the children whose lives are deeply affected by domestic violence. When those children enter foster care, they may face court hearings, new homes, new schools, and unfamiliar adults, all while trying to make sense of what has happened.

CASA volunteers are a steady presence through that uncertainty. Someone who listens. Someone who speaks up. Someone who keeps showing up.

You can be that someone.

Become a CASA volunteer and help a child know that their story matters and they do not have to navigate foster care alone. 💜

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence or intimate partner violence, help is available. Saving Grace of Central Oregon provides free and confidential support for survivors in Central Oregon, including a 24-hour helpline, emergency shelter, advocacy, and other resources.

💜 24-Hour Helpline: 541-389-7021
💜 Learn more: saving-grace.org

10/22/2026

As a CASA volunteer, you become a steady, trusted advocate for a child during one of the most difficult chapters of their life.

You may help make sure their voice is heard in court. You may advocate for stability at school, needed services, connections with siblings, or opportunities that help them thrive.

Sometimes, the most powerful thing you can offer is simply consistency: “I’m still here. I see you. I’m not giving up on you.”

That kind of presence can change a child’s experience in foster care.

10/16/2026

In difficult moments, caring for one another matters.

We’re sharing these community resources for anyone who may need additional support right now. Whether you are seeking help for yourself, your child, or someone you care about, please know you are not alone.

Take care of yourselves and one another. 💙

Deschutes County Health Services St. Charles Health System Bend-La Pine Schools

Deschutes County Health Services, St. Charles Health System, and Bend-La Pine Schools are partnering to host free, walk-in community support events on Friday, Oct. 16, following the tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary.

The events will provide immediate support, connection and crisis stabilization tools, for families, staff and community members.

Event details:

Community Support & Healing Gathering (CISM)

When: 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 (Drop-in format)
Where: Deschutes Public Library - Central Library, 61956 SE Santorini St., Bend
Cost: Free and open to all students, families, staff, and community members.

Community Support & Healing Gathering (CISM)

When: 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Oct. 16 (Drop-in format)
Where: Larkspur Community Center, 1600 SE Reed Market Rd., Bend
Cost: Free and open to all students, families, staff, and community members.

"Today’s events have deeply shaken our entire community, especially our families, students, first responders, and educators at Silver Rail Elementary," said Behavioral Health Director Shannon Brister-Raugust, "and we want our community to know the resources they have and that we are here to help."

“We know that healing takes time, and we are committed to working alongside our local partners to provide the safe spaces, emotional support, and care that our neighbors need right now,” said Molly Wells Darling, Senior Director for Behavioral Health with St. Charles.

What is CISM?

The events will use Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) frameworks. CISM is a structured, short-term supportive discussion designed to help individuals process the acute physical, mental, and emotional reactions that naturally follow traumatic experiences. CISM is not psychotherapy or clinical counseling; rather, it provides a safe, compassionate environment to understand normal stress responses, share experiences, and learn practical coping tools from trained peers and professionals.

At each event, professional crisis response staff and peers will lead small-group discussions, offer guidance on how to talk to children about traumatic events, and connect people with local resources.

Immediate Family and Crisis Resources:

For families and staff seeking immediate help before or after this event, several specialized county and regional systems remain fully operational:

Walk-In Care: The Deschutes County Stabilization Center is open 24 hours a day at 63311 NE Jamison St., Bend.
Local Crisis Line: Call 541-322-7500 ext. 9.
National Hotline: Call or text 988 any time.

St. Charles Health System
Bend-La Pine Schools

10/15/2026

Our hearts are with the students, families, educators, school staff, first responders, and everyone in our community impacted by today’s tragedy.

At CASA of Central Oregon, our work is rooted in a simple belief: every child deserves to feel safe, supported, and surrounded by caring adults. Today, we hold our community a little closer.

We stand with all those who are hurting, grieving, and supporting children through an unimaginable day. May we continue to show up for one another with compassion, care, and strength.

10/14/2026

Looking to make a difference with just a few hours a week? Become a CASA volunteer by signing up for our final training of 2026.
💙Applications open now
💙Training starts November 3
💙No prior experience necessary
Learn more and apply today: casaofcentraloregon.com/volunteer

10/12/2026

Substance use doesn’t affect just one person. Its impact can reach an entire family, and for many children, family substance abuse is one of the circumstances that leads to their involvement in foster care.

During Substance Abuse Prevention Month, we’re reminded of the importance of prevention, compassion, and community support.

For children in foster care, a CASA volunteer can be a consistent adult who listens, advocates, and helps keep the child’s needs at the center.

💙 Every child deserves someone in their corner.

10/12/2026

Looking for something meaningful in your life?

Become a CASA volunteer and make a lasting difference for a child in foster care.

CASA volunteers are caring community members who show up, listen, advocate, and help ensure a child’s needs and voice are not overlooked. You don’t need to be a lawyer or social worker. You just need the compassion to care, the commitment to learn, and the willingness to be there.

One caring adult can make a powerful difference.

Your time can change a child’s story. Become a CASA volunteer today.

Learn more at casaofcentraloregon.org/volunteer