Boston Casa Inc.

“Part III Line 4a - Program Service Acomplishments”

“At Boston CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) we believe that abused and neglected children deserve every opportunity to thrive. Being torn from one's family is traumatic for a child or youth of any age, no matter how imperfect the family situation. The physical, emotional, educational, and social development of children are often compromised. The longer children are in foster care, the worse their outcomes. Boston CASA recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who are appointed by judges to serve as guardians ad litem to watch over and advocate for foster children. "CASAs" monitor a child's well-being, orchestrate collaboration among all parties involved in the case, advocate for the child's best interest, and ensure that court orders and child protective service plans are implemented. CASA volunteers regularly visit children, serve as mentors, attend school meetings, and guide and support caregivers. They have access to all records, report quarterly to the court, and stay with each case until it is closed. The focus of a CASA is to be the advocate and voice for children in protective care. The CASA sytem of providing caring, consistent adults to oversee the cases of foster children works. Research has shown that children with a CASA volunteer are more likely to receive services while in foster care; to perform better academically and to stay in school; to find a safe, permanent home; and are less likely to return to foster care.”

“The Treasurer reviews the Form 990 at a Board Meeting highlighting the details and discussing any questions previous to filing.”

“Each board member is required to file a written Conflict of Interest statement and to notify the board of any changes. Any board member that is aware of a change may bring this to the President or Executive Committee of the Board.”

“The board or a sub-committee of the board reviews the performance of the Executive Director. Compensation is reviewed among various authoritative sources of compensation information, review of peer organizations compensation for similar positions, and local market conditions. All other employees' compensation is reviewed by the Executive Director and ratified by the board.”

“The organization makes its governing documents, conflict of interest policy, and financial statements available to the public at its office which currently is located at 715 Boylston Street, Suite 410, Boston, MA 02116. It is advisable for those requesting to view these documents to call in advance to ensure someone is available to show the documents. Also, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Office of the Attorney General usually posts financial statements and Forms 990 on its website.”

“Other office/operating expenses depreciation, bank & credit fees, meetings payroll processing fees, volunteer training website, travel, supplies, etc.”

“Includes computers net of accumulated depreciation and lease deposit”

“Includes benefit and payroll related liabilities due to carrier and federal/state tax agencies.”