ABOUT CASA

CASA is the only volunteer organization that empowers everyday citizens as officers of the court. In an overburdened social welfare system, abused and neglected children often slip through the cracks among current cases. CASA volunteers change that. Appointed by judges, CASA volunteers typically handle just one case at a time—and commit to staying on that case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home. While others may come and go, CASA volunteers provide that one constant that children need in order to thrive.

Are you ready to stand up for a child who needs you?
Inquire today about the power you have to change a child's life.

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THE ROLE OF CASA VOLUNTEERS- For Additional Information Visit the Links to the Right

CASA volunteers make a one year commitment to the program at a minimum.  They work approximately 6-10 hours per month engaged in the following volunteer activities:

• Investigation  The CASA Volunteer carries out an objective, systematic examination of the situation, including relevant history of the case, the environment where the child is living, relationships and needs of the child. This is done by interviewing all interested and concerned parties to determine the facts, and reviewing all records, documents and clinical data, investigating alternative living arrangements for the child.

• Facilitation  The CASA Volunteer assists in the implementation of any plan prescribed by the court. The volunteer advocate identifies resources and services the child needs and facilitates a relationship that encourages collaboration between all parties involved in the case, helping to create a situation where the needs of the child can be met.

• Advocacy  The CASA Volunteer speaks up for the best interest and pleads the case for the child to whom the volunteer is appointed, through preparing written reports, stating findings and recommendations for permanent disposition of the case and submitting the reports according to standardized procedures. Volunteer advocates also will appear at court hearings to be available for direct testimony if required or requested.

• Monitoring  The CASA Volunteer keeps track of whether the orders of the court and the child  protective services agency are being carried out.  The CASA reports to the court or collaborates with other parties involved in the case when any of the court orders or plans are not being followed, and brings to the court's attention to any changes in circumstances that may require modification of the court's order.

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BECOMING A CASA VOLUNTEER - For Additional Information Visit the Links to the Right

CASA volunteers complete a thorough interview and screening process with CASA program staff.   Volunteers are also required to complete a criminal background check and abuse registry check process.  This is to ensure the safety of the children involved in the program and also allows the program staff to make sure that good “matches” are made between the CASA and his or her assigned children.

Once selected, CASA volunteers complete a 30 hour pre-service training program.  These trainings are scheduled around the needs of the CASA volunteers’ schedules as much as possible and are usually held in the evening and on weekends as needed.  Upon completion of the training program, volunteers are sworn in as officers of the court and begin working on their assigned cases.

Minimum Criteria for CASA Volunteers:

• Must be 21 years of age or older
• Must have a High School Diploma or GED
• Must be able to commit 6-10 hours per month to CASA
• Must commit to a minimum of one year of service
• Must be able to respectfully work with diverse families and situations
• Must be able to maintain a high level of confidentiality
• Must have transportation available to regularly visit the assigned child/children
• Must be available to appear at court hearings (approximately 4 times per year)

THE BENEFITS OF VOLUNTEERING