CASA of Iowa

06/10/2026

Today we celebrate someone who has given so much of himself to our mission and the people we serve. After 26 years of dedication, hard work, and steady leadership, Kevin Schnoebelen has officially retired.

Kevin has been the kind of colleague everyone hopes to work with - dependable, thoughtful, and always willing to lend a hand. His calm presence and deep knowledge have shaped countless projects and supported so many volunteers along the way. Whether solving a tough problem, offering guidance, or adding a little humor to the day, Kevin brought a consistency and kindness that made a real difference.

We’re grateful for the impact he’s made and the legacy he leaves behind. His efforts will be felt long after he steps into this next chapter - one we hope is filled with relaxation, great camping memories with his family, and all the things he’s been waiting to enjoy. Please join us in wishing Kevin a well earned, happy, and fulfilling retirement.

Congratulations Kevin! You will be so missed around the office. Thank you for the huge impact you have made at CASA!

06/09/2026

The 2026 CASA Conference date and location has been set. Join us August 13th, 2026 at the Bien VenU in Cedar Falls, Iowa. This conference is open to all, so put it on your calendar. This event is sponsored by Friends of Iowa CASA. More to come!

The 2026 CASA Conference date and location has been set. Join us August 13th, 2026 at the Bien VenU in Cedar Falls, Iowa. This conference is open to all, so put it on your calendar. More to come!

05/29/2026

Haley stepped into CASA not only to give back to her community, but also to gain real‑world experience in the child welfare field, and it’s become an incredibly meaningful part of her life. As a high‑level college student, she wanted hands‑on insight, a chance to see the system up close, and an opportunity to make a real difference for kids who need steady support.
If you’re looking for experience, purpose, or a meaningful way to support children and families in your own community, CASA is a powerful place to start.
Iowa needs volunteers in all 99 counties. Learn more or sign up at hhs.iowa.gov/casa.

05/22/2026

Laura stepped into CASA because she wanted to show up for children and families right in her own community. Kids do better when someone local knows the area, understands the resources and culture of the area, and is willing to stand beside them through the tough moments. That’s why we’re working to ensure every child in all 99 counties has someone from their own community who cares.
If you’re looking for a meaningful way to make a difference where you live just like Laura, go to our website at hhs.iowa.gov/CASA to learn more or apply to volunteer today.

05/20/2026

Do something that really matters. Be a CASA and and fight for the kids and families in your community.

05/18/2026

Several of our amazing CASAs joined Program Coordinator Kristina Chandler for a CASA field trip to the Young Women's Resource Center in Polk County last week and wow, what an experience! These field trips are all about our CASAs growing our knowledge, building stronger resource banks, and deepening empathy and understanding so we can better support the families we serve.

The YWRC staff who welcomed us were absolutely phenomenal- warm, joyful, and clearly passionate about their mission. Their energy was contagious, and seeing their commitment up close helps our CASAs feel confident sharing these resources with families and partners on the team. Visiting in person removes fear of the unknown, helps us understand the environment, and reminds us just how much heart exists behind the services in our community.

The Young Women’s Resource Center offers critical support, education, and empowerment programs for girls and young women in the Des Moines area. After seeing this program in person, it is so clear that this is a place where women and girls will feel safe, strong, and supported the second they walk in their door.

Learn more about their incredible work at https://ywrc.org/

05/15/2026

“What surprised me the most about being a CASA is how there were fewer men involved… and that I’ve actually made a difference in every case I’ve been involved in.” — Jesse
If you’re looking for a challenge that truly matters, like Jesse, CASA needs more volunteers, especially good men, who are willing to show up, be consistent, and make an impact in a child’s life. Learn more or sign up to volunteer today.

05/12/2026

A CASA volunteer is a caring, consistent adult who offers hope and support to children who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASAs meet with children who need a steady, dependable adult as they navigate uncertainty- connecting with the child, listening to what matters most, and making sure the judge understands their wants, their needs, and their safety.
If you’re seeing this, it means kids in YOUR community need a CASA right now.
These are the kids in your classrooms, your neighborhoods, your faith communities- kids facing big changes who shouldn’t have to face them alone. They need someone by their side.
You can change a child’s story.

Become a CASA volunteer today.
Visit hhs.iowa.gov/CASA to learn more and apply.

05/11/2026

Vanessa’s powerful words are a reminder that kids don’t need someone perfect; they need someone who shows up. She stepped into CASA work and quickly realized how many children in Iowa could benefit from an advocate who is steady, unbiased, and willing to stand beside them when life feels uncertain.
Her story is a call to action for anyone who’s been thinking about doing something meaningful: your consistency can change a child’s story.
If you feel even the slightest pull reading her experience, don’t wait. Learn more or sign up to volunteer at hhs.iowa.gov/casa. Iowa’s kids need advocates in communities across all 99 counties and you might be exactly who they’re hoping for.

05/07/2026

Our very own Kevin Schnoebelen — local CASA legend and CASA Program Coordinator for Polk and Jasper Counties — is officially retiring!

If you’ve worked with Kevin, you know how much heart he’s poured into this program and the families we serve. Please take a moment to congratulate him, send a card, give him a call, or just wish him well as he heads into this next adventure.
Let's shower him with appreciation.