Our volunteers give a voice to the children in our community who need it most. CASA volunteers are individuals from the community who are trained to advocate for abused and neglected children. They are required to commit to staying on a case until a permanent placement has been achieved, which is usually 12-18 months. CASA volunteers submit an application with references, complete an oral interview, and complete 30 hours of training. A complete criminal history and child abuse registry check are done on each application. Upon completion of their training, they attend a swearing-in ceremony with the judge and promise to maintain strict confidentiality and professionalism throughout their appointment as CASA volunteers. Why do you need CASAs if you have caseworkers and attorneys? These professionals often have large caseloads, which makes it physically impossible to spend as much time with a child as a volunteer, who works one case at a time. With another source of information, the saying “two heads are better than one!” applies here. Judges rule on the information they receive from all of the professionals. What are the requirements to become a CASA?
* Be 21 years of age
* Pass the following background checks: Department of Motor Vehicle, County Courthouse, Federal/Sex Offender, Department of Human Services
* Provide 3 references
* Make a commitment to serve as a CASA for a minimum of 18 months
* Be willing to donate approximately 10-12 hours per month
* Attend and complete 30 hours of training provided by the CASA program.
* Attend 12 hours of continuing education sessions provided by the CASA program per year
* Maintain strict confidentiality
* Maintain objectivity and professionalism in dealing with children, parents, and all other parties involved with the case
* Possess written and verbal skills
How many cases will I have at a time? CASA volunteers only have 1 case at a time.
