A CASA volunteer is a Court Appointed Special Advocate appointed by a judge or magistrate to represent the best interest of an abused or neglected child in court.
Application Process:
The application process includes a criminal background check, a personal references check and an interview. Volunteers receive 30 hours of training before being assigned to a child. Once assigned, volunteers receive ongoing supervision, training and support. Volunteers are expected to maintain regular contact with their supervisor.
Please fill out our online application to become a Voices for Children volunteer.
Please have your driver’s license number and the names, addresses and email addresses for 3 personal (non-family) references ready to complete the application.
Once you fill out an application, one of our staff will be in touch to discuss next steps and to step up an interview.
The responsibilities of CASA volunteers are as follows:
Take responsibility for one child and visit on a regular basis (weekly)
Gather facts about a child’s family background through an independent, comprehensive investigation reviewing available records
Establish rapport and regular communication with biological family and foster parents
Record information and contacts into an online portal in a timely manner
Communicate the child’s needs to the court in written reports and recommendations
Ensure that court-ordered services and case planning are provided in a timely, effective manner
Provide emotional support for the child during this stressful period in their lives
Communicate and coordinate efforts with the child’s social worker, attorney and other professionals involved in the child’s case
Attend regular in-service trainings
Volunteers are required to commit for a minimum of one year and generally spend 7-10 hours a month with a child