What Does it Mean to be a CASA volunteer?

How much time does it take to be a CASA volunteer?

All volunteers must complete a 30-hour pre-service training. The time commitment to a case varies depending upon the stage of the case. Volunteers sometimes say that there is a greater amount of work in the beginning of the case, when they are conducting their initial research. On average, you can expect to spend approximately 10 hours a month on a case.

Do I need to make a long-term commitment to the program?

We ask for an eighteen-month commitment. Once a volunteer is assigned to a case, he/she must have contact with the child at least once a week. Some time is also spent making phone calls to people who are involved in the child’s life. More time is spent by CASA volunteers when court is approaching, which is usually every six months, sometimes more frequently. This is because a court report must be written (usually 3-7 pages in length) and the court hearings must be attended. On a typical week, the CASA volunteer spends time with the child and makes a few phone calls.

Do I need to have any special skills or meet any requirements?

No special background or education is required to become a CASA volunteer. We encourage people from all cultures and professions, and of all ethnic and educational backgrounds. Once accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of abused and neglected children.

Requirements include:

·         Be 21 years old;

·         Be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references and participate in an interview ;

·         Complete a minimum of 30 hours of pre-service training;

·         Be available for court appearances, with advance notice;

·         Be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed; and

·         Be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed.

Exactly what does a CASA volunteer do?

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court and other settings. The primary responsibilities of a CASA volunteer are to:

·         Gather information:  Conduct thorough research through review of documents and records, and interviewing the children, family members and professionals in their lives.

·         Document findings:  Provide written reports at court hearings.

·         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.

·         "Be the glue":  Seek cooperative solutions among individuals and organizations involved in the children's lives. As one volunteer said: Be the glue that connects the pieces in a complicated child welfare system.

·         Recommend services:  Ensure that the children and their family are receiving appropriate services and advocate for those that are not immediately available. Bring concerns about the child's health, education, mental health, etc. to the appropriate professionals.

·         Monitor case plans and court orders:  Check to see that plans are being followed and mandated review hearings are being held.

·         Keep the court informed:  Update the court on developments with agencies and family members. Ensure that appropriate motions are filed on behalf of the child so the court knows about any changes in the child's situation.

·         CASA volunteers are the "Voice for the Children in Court"

What sort of support will I receive?

You will be supported every step of the way by your Case Supervisor. You will also have opportunities for continuing education locally with Denver CASA and Colorado CASA, and have access to online resources provided by National CASA, including a resource library, national Facebook community and national conference.