What does a CASA volunteer do?

Conduct an investigation

When a CASA volunteer is appointed to a case they act as an investigator to try and figure out the circumstances of the child's abuse or neglect and how we can prevent it from happening again. To do this, the volunteer reviews records involving the child and family, interviews the family and various other individuals, and they interact with the child.

Spend time

with the child

One of the most important roles as a CASA is to spend time and form a relationship with the child. Volunteers will ask what the child wants throughout this difficult situation and be able to report this to the Judge through a written report. 

 

Attend court on

behalf of the child

After a volunteer has collected all of this information, they attend court to let the Judge know their findings, what the child's wishes are, and what the volunteer believes is in the best interest of the child.

 

To become a volunteer

All one needs to do to become a volunteer is submit an application and participate in our next training session! Our training will teach you everything you will need to know about advocating for children. No prior experience is necessary, but our children require an advocate who have qualities such as professionalism, dependability, credibility, a good gauge of common sense, and a strong commitment to children. Applicants are required to be 21 years or older and be able to pass a background check that we will provide!

 

"Every child has a chance...it is you."

 
Apply Here!

Why they became a volunteer

Mark K.

"Don't complain about the problem, be part of the solution. Your community is only as successful as we are willing to make it. Children are our future! I have spent my career in law enforcement and education. I believe that we need to stop complaining about our youth and show the path through positive reinforcement, the path to success. With recently retiring I believe that it is my duty to volunteer my experience to give a child a better chance to be given the tools to succeed. The training was very hands-on with the allowance for growth in understanding and empathy. I reveled in the ability to discuss my ideas with others and learn from theirs. I was never told I was "wrong" but led to a place of better understanding of the resources that we legitimately have at our disposal to help."

Brianne R.

"I became a CASA volunteer as part of my graduation requirement for my Criminal Justice degree. At the time I was working midnights full-time at the Juvenile Detention Center and needed something that fit my schedule. When I signed up for the training, I was nervous but excited to help out a child or children in need. It allowed me to be a voice and speak up for them when needed and be a stable reminder that things can and will get better in their upside-down world. Advice I would give any potential volunteer would be to give CASA a shot. You won't know unless you try, and it just may be the best thing you've done for a child in your community who otherwise wouldn't have anyone in their corner."

Karen E.

"Most of my career as a nurse was spent with "at-risk" youth. Mentors for youth can make a huge difference in their lives, from spending time in jail to productive lives. I wanted to connect with youth and let them know that adults, other than their family, could be trusted and truly care. With that goal in mind, I volunteered for CASA. I learned a great deal about the legal system and special problems of children "in the system". This experience has been exceedingly rewarding and I have made lifelong connections with many youths."

Diane S.

"I wanted to be a CASA volunteer because KIDS NEED US! They need someone to look out for them. My 4 nephews were in the system over 35 years ago - They NEEDED a VOICE and did not have one - It broke my heart when they told me their stories. This made me want to help the kids in our area so my nephews' story does not repeat itself. Training is very good, and help is always there when you need it!"