CASA of Imperial County is proud to announce that Executive Director Alex Cardenas has been selected to serve on the National CASA/GAL Leadership Council (NLC) for the 2026 term, a prestigious appointment recognizing his leadership, commitment to child advocacy, and dedication to improving outcomes for children in foster care.
The National Leadership Council is a working council of leaders from across the country whose purpose is to represent the interests and perspectives of local CASA/GAL programs and ensure those voices are elevated to the National CASA/GAL Association and its Board of Trustees. The Council plays a critical role in strengthening collaboration, fostering accountability, and advancing the mission and vision of CASA/GAL nationwide.
Cardenas was invited to join the Council by the National CASA/GAL Association in recognition of his continued leadership and service to vulnerable children and families. Through his work at CASA of Imperial County, he has helped expand advocacy services for foster youth, strengthen partnerships with tribal and community organizations, and advance innovative programs that support education, permanency, and child well-being
"This appointment is both an honor and a responsibility," said Cardenas. "I am grateful for the opportunity to represent Imperial County, the Quechan Tribal Community, and the many CASA programs serving children across the nation. Every child deserves to be heard, protected, and given the opportunity to succeed, and I look forward to contributing to that mission on a national level."
Under Cardenas' leadership, CASA of Imperial County has become a recognized leader in child advocacy, serving more than 400 foster youth annually and maintaining one of California's most unique partnerships with a tribal court through its longstanding collaboration with the Quechan Tribal Court.
The National Leadership Council will begin meeting in June 2026 and will work throughout the year to strengthen connections across the CASA/GAL network, provide guidance on key priorities, and support the continued growth and effectiveness of CASA programs nationwide.
"Alex's appointment reflects not only his commitment to children and families, but also the innovative work being done in Imperial County," said Tara Perry, Chief Executive Officer of the National CASA/GAL Association. "We are grateful for his willingness to serve and contribute his expertise to the Council."
CASA of Imperial County congratulates Alex Cardenas on this well-deserved national recognition and looks forward to the positive impact his service will have on children and families both locally and across the country.