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CASA Volunteers are
the child's voice in court and advocate for their best interest,
making perhaps the single greatest difference in the life of
these abused, neglected and abandoned children. CASA volunteers
are the eyes, ears and sometimes the arms of the court. The
results are dramatic. Studies show that when a child has a CASA
volunteer they are more likely to be adopted, rather than languish
in long-term foster care. They are also more likely to receive
needed services, such as therapy, health care and education.
What exactly does a volunteer do?
CASA volunteers are assigned to an abuse or neglect case by
a judge. They conduct thorough research on the background of
the case, reviewing documents, interviewing everyone involved,
including the child. They make reports to the court, recommending
what they believe is best for the child, providing the judge
with information that will help her make an informed decision.
CASA volunteers can be instrumental in assuring that a child
or family receives services which the court has ordered - things
like substance abuse counseling or special education testing.
During the life of a case, a CASA volunteer monitors the child's
situation to make sure he remains safe. CASA volunteers may
be the only constant the child knows as she moves through the
labyrinth of the child welfare system.
What kind of people serve as CASA volunteers?
People just like you. Being a CASA volunteer requires no
advanced educational degree or legal experience. But it does
require special people over the age of 21 with:
A concern for children and the genuine desire to help
The ability to remain objective and the maturity to deal
with emotional situations
Sensitivity to cultural and ethnic differences
The commitment to complete a 34-hour training course
Access to transportation and a schedule flexible enough
to attend periodic court sessions
A willingness to devote approximately one year to complete
an assigned case
Able to complete and pass a criminal and child abuse history records check
Are there easier volunteer opportunities in our community?
Certainly.
But non more vital to the life of an abused or neglected
child.
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 Click
here
to request a volunteer packet |
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