YOU, TOO, CAN SPEAK UP FOR A CHILD WHO’S BEEN ABUSED OR NEGLECTED. BECOME A CASA VOLUNTEER
Imagine the experience of children who are removed from their homes because the people responsible for protecting them have not. These children find themselves in a world filled with social workers, lawyers, judges and courtrooms where life-altering decisions are made on their behalf.
A CASA volunteer is a court appointed, trained and committed adult who ensures that each child’s individual needs remain a priority in an over-burdened child welfare system. They get to know the child while also gathering information from the child’s family, teachers, doctors, caregivers and anyone else involved in the child’s life in order to make independent and informed recommendations to help the judge decide what’s best for the child.
As a CASA volunteer, you:
- Spend quality time with your CASA child or children
- Stay in touch with family, caregivers, teachers, therapists and other advocates in a CASA child’s life
- Participate in case meetings and review case documents
- Determine what is in the best interest of the children
- Present your information and opinions to the judge in court
REQUIREMENTS OF A CASA
- Make a commitment to serve as a CASA for a minimum of one year
- Be 21 years of age
- Be willing to donate 6-10 hours per month
- Attend training sessions and review all training materials provided by CASA
- Maintain objectivity and professionalism in dealing with children, parents and all other parties involved in the case
- Possess verbal and written communication skills
RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CASA
- To serve as an arm of the Juvenile Court as researcher, monitor, and child advocate
- Interview child, parents, foster parents and any other concerned parties or relatives
- Review appropriate records and reports
- Work with Attorney Guardian Ad Litem as counsel, representing the best interests of the child
- Confer with counselors, teachers, social workers, etc. involved in the case
- Submit thorough, independent written reports to the Court and Guardian Ad Litem prior to court hearings
- Appear in Court as needed to answer questions or testify on findings or recommendations
- Maintain records of all findings and document all contacts
- Visit institutions, foster homes or group homes where child is placed or may be placed
- Monitor court orders to ensure services to the child are being furnished in a timely manner and placement is appropriate
- Maintain contact with the program director/coordinator and submit all documentation
- Remain involved in the case until the Court’s jurisdiction is terminated
YOU CAN VOLUNTEER
CASA volunteers come from every walk of life and share a commitment to improving children’s lives, a willingness to learn and an open mind towards life experiences different from their own. No special education, experience or background is needed. We will provide you with all the training necessary to be an effective CASA Volunteer.