What we do

What does a CASA volunteer do for a child they advocate for?

  • A CASA volunteer visits the child regularly and is appointed by the court.
  • The CASA volunteer builds a trustworthy relationship with the child and looks out for the child’s best interest.
  • A CASA is someone the child can talk to openly without any fear.
  • The CASA volunteer communicates to the court and the child’s needs and wants and looks out for their well being and what is best for them.

Other CASA duties include:

  • Gather information:  Review documents and records, interview child, family members and professionals in the child’s life.
  • Provide documents:  Write reports on findings for court hearings with recommendations to benefit the child.
  • Appear in court:  Advocate for the child’s best interests and provide testimony when necessary.
  • Explain what is going on:  Help the child understand the court proceedings.
  • Seek solutions:  Be the glue that connects the pieces in a sometimes complicated child welfare system.  Seek solutions among individuals and organizations involved in the child’s life.
  • Recommended services:  Ensure that the child and his or her family are receiving appropriate services.  Bring concerns about the child’s physical health, education, mental health, etc. to the appropriate professionals.
  • Monitor case plans and court orders:  Check to see that case plans and court orders are begin followed.
  • Keep the court informed:  Update the court on developments with agencies and family members.  Ensure that appropriate actions are taken on behalf of the child so the court knows about any changes in the child’s situation.
    • A CASA volunteer is required to complete 30 hours of per service training and 12 hours of yearly ongoing training.
    • A CASA volunteer is asked to remain committed to a case throughout its duration.
    • A CASA volunteer goes through a complete background check before they are assigned to a case.
    • A CASA volunteer respects the dignity and confidentiality of the family or child they are working with.

The CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer is a qualified, compassionate adult who fights for and protects a child’s right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and to grow up in a safe and loving family.