CASA Advocate

A child's Voice.

A child's Life.

Lifted up.

By YOU.

We are Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA):

A volunteer-powered network of committed people - from all walks of life-who believe society has a fundamental obligation to these children. We are people just like you who believe that every child has the right to be treated with dignity, to be safe, and to thrive in the embrace of a loving family.

A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a judge to advocate for an abused or neglected child in juvenile court deprivation proceedings. The CASA advocates for each child to be placed in a safe, permanent home as quickly as possible. The CASA also makes independent recommendations to the court for services that focus on meeting the needs of each child.

As a CASA Advocate you will...

· Visit the child.

· Gather independent information about the child to make recommendations to the

court in the child's best interest.

· Interview the parents, guardians or caretakers.

· Interview the social worker and other service providers

· Review records related to the family.

· Seek cooperative solutions with other participants in the child's case.

· Prepare written reports for court hearings.

· Attend and participate in court hearings and other related meetings.

· Testify, if needed, to inform the court of changes in the child's situation.

· Identify potential resources within the family and community to meet the child’s needs.

· Keep all records and information confidential.

· Monitor provisions of service plans and court orders.

· Explain the role of the CASA to every child, and keep the child about court proceedings.

· Consult with local program staff for support/guidance.

and much more...

How to become a CASA Volunteer:

Complete an application including personal/professional references

Undergo a criminal background check

Be interviewed by CASA staff

Complete 40 hours of Training

Be Sworn in by a Judge