CASA Advocate
In a time of turmoil, CASA advocates provide consistency and stability. A CASA advocate is more than a volunteer – they complete 30 hours of training and become a sworn officer of the court.
A CASA VOLUNTEER IS AN INDIVIDUAL WHO:
- Is at least 21 years old.
- Successfully passes screening, background checks and a personal interview prior to starting training.
- Has strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Is able to commit 15 hours each month.
- Is willing to travel within the state depending upon child placement.
- Successfully completes 33 hours of initial training provided by the CASA program. Any sessions missed must be made up before the applicant is assigned to case.
- Is able to keep information confidential and can work within established program guidelines.
- Respects a child’s inherent right to grow up with dignity in a safe and nurturing environment.
A CASA VOLUNTEER MUST:
- Have the ability to keep all information confidential.
- Be able to deal with hostility, anger, and other emotional attitudes.
- Be able to communicate effectively and relate to people from various backgrounds in a variety of settings.
- Be able to maintain objectivity.
- Maintain professionalism in behavior and appearance.
- Be willing to report any incidents of child abuse or neglect.
A CASA VOLUNTEER’S RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Maintaining written records about the case.
- Interviewing all parties involved in the case, including the child.
- Remaining actively involved until the case is closed and no other services are needed.
- Providing the CASA office with a court report 10 business days prior to all court proceedings.
- Attend 12 hours of continuing education each year. Provided through monthly CASA In Service Programs.
- Make visits to the child at a minimum of once per month.
- Participate in the child’s planning and treatment program and ensure that essential needs are being met at all times.
What is a CASA Volunteer?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer is a trained citizen who is appointed by a judge to represent the best interest of an abused and neglected child in court.
What is the CASA volunteer’s role?
A CASA volunteer provides the judge with carefully researched information about the child to help the court make a sound decision about that child’s future. The CASA volunteer makes recommendations about placement to the judge and follows through until the child reaches a safe, permanent home.
How does a CASA volunteer investigate a case?
To prepare a recommendation, the CASA volunteer talks with the child, parents, family members, social workers, school officials, health providers, and others who are knowledgeable about the child. The CASA volunteer also reviews all records pertaining to the child- school, medical and case worker reports and other documents.
How does the CASA volunteer relate to the child he or she represents?
CASA volunteers offer children trust and advocacy during complex legal proceedings. They explain to the child the events that are happening, the reasons they are in court, and the roles of the judge, lawyers, and social workers. CASA volunteers also encourage the child to express his or her own opinion and hopes, while remaining objective observers.
How many cases on average does a CASA volunteer carry at one time?
Volunteers can carry up to a maximum of two cases.
How much time does being a CASA volunteer require?
After thirty hours of initial training, volunteers typically work about 10-15 hours a month.
How long does a CASA volunteer remain involved in the case?
The volunteer continues until the case is permanently resolved.
What children are assigned CASA volunteers?
Children who are victims of abuse and neglect who have become wards of the court are assigned CASA volunteers.
Click here to download a complete advocate application packet
