Gulfport, Mississippi
February 4, 2026
CASA of South Mississippi will formally swear in 15 new CASA volunteer advocates during an upcoming swearing-in ceremony on February 10, 2026, at 6pm at the Knight Nonprofit Center, 11975 Seaway Road, Gulfport, MS 39503, marking the moment these volunteers officially step into one of the most meaningful roles for children in foster care.
Each advocate has completed 30 hours of comprehensive training and observed Youth Court proceedings to prepare for the responsibility ahead. Soon, they will begin serving children who have experienced abuse or neglect that often feel overwhelmed, unheard, and unsure of what comes next.
The advocates will be sworn in by Judge Michael Dickinson of Harrison County and Judge Sean Courtney of Stone County, formally appointing them as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) and affirming the trust placed in them by the judicial system.
CASA advocates visit children regularly, attend court hearings, speak with caregivers, teachers, medical providers, and case workers, and then share what they learn with the judge. In doing so, they become the eyes and ears of the court, offering judges a fuller picture of a child’s daily life so decisions are grounded in truth, compassion, and the child’s best interest. CASA volunteers are often the one consistent adult in a system full of change for the children they serve.
The ceremony will also recognize CASA’s newest Advocate Supervisor, a key role dedicated to supporting advocates as they navigate cases, prepare court reports, and remain focused on each child’s well-being. Advocate Supervisors ensure volunteers are never alone in their work and that children receive strong, informed advocacy throughout their case.
As children continue to enter foster care across South Mississippi, CASA remains committed to ensuring each child has someone whose only job is to look out for them. These advocates are not there to replace parents or make decisions for the court. They are there to listen, to care, and to make sure a child’s story is fully heard.
If you would like to learn more about volunteering with CASA of South Mississippi, please contact Community Outreach Coordinator, Kelly Blackmon, at (225)936-5440 or kelly@casasouthms.org.