Illinois Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) CASA programs train volunteers to serve as court-appointed advocates for children in foster care. CASAs work with judges, caseworkers, and attorneys to ensure each child's voice is heard and their rights are upheld in the court system. https://illinoiscasa.org/what-we-do/

Illinois DCFS – Office of the Guardian The DCFS Office of the Guardian advocates for the legal rights and best interests of children in the care of the Illinois child welfare system. Guardians monitor children’s placements, education, medical care, and legal proceedings, and help ensure their rights are protected during their time in care. https://dcfs.illinois.gov/about/inside-dcfs/office-of-the-guardian.html

National Association of Counsel for Children (NACC) The NACC offers advocacy and legal resources for youth in foster care. Their mission is to ensure every child has a well-trained legal representative to advocate for their rights in child welfare cases. The site also includes youth-friendly tools for understanding court processes. https://naccchildlaw.org/

Children’s Law Center of California – Know Your Rights for Foster Youth While based in California, this resource provides excellent nationwide tools that help foster youth understand their legal rights related to placement, education, mental health care, and personal safety. It includes downloadable guides and videos tailored for youth. https://www.clccal.org/foster-youth-resources

Juvenile Law Center – Youth Advocacy Resources The Juvenile Law Center is a national legal advocacy organization focused on protecting the rights of youth in foster care, juvenile justice, and child welfare systems. Their resource hub includes guides on legal rights, aging out of care, education, and permanency planning. https://jlc.org/youth-resources



Youth in Care Bill of Rights – Illinois DCFS This document outlines the specific rights of youth in Illinois foster care, including the right to safety, education, healthcare, privacy, and participation in case planning. It is designed to help youth understand what they’re entitled to and how to self-advocate. https://dcfs.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/dcfs/documents/forms/cfs1050-41youthincarebillofrights.pdf