Frequently Asked Questions
   
  Q: Do I need to have any special training or educational background?
  A: No. CASA provides the necessary training to become a CASA Volunteer.
   
  Q: Is there an age requirement?
  A: Yes. You must be at least 21 to become a CASA Volunteer
   
  Q: What commitments would I be making?
  A: When you become a CASA you agree to work with a child for at least the length of your first case, to meet with them on a weekly basis, to maintain confidentiality and to abide by the protocol that CASA has established. 
   
  Q: What hours would I be volunteering?
  A: You set your own hours based on your schedule, and the schedule of the child and their caregivers. Expect to spend at least 2 hours a week visiting the child and making phone calls. During times when there is a report due, or a change is occurring, more time may be required to gather information. Our volunteers provide an average of 6-10 hours a month.
   
  Q: What are the duties of a CASA volunteer?
  Click here for the CASA Volunteer Job Description.
   
 

  • Attend all court hearings except that the CASA volunteer may be excused by the court or the program director if emergency circumstances arise;

  • Submit a written report and recommendation to the judge for consideration in determining the best interest of the child at the dispositional hearing, dispositional review hearings, other hearings as requested by the court, and at least one (1) report every six (6) months for as long as the case is assigned to a CASA volunteer;

  • Monitor the case by visiting the child as often as necessary to observe whether the child's essential needs are being met, and whether court orders are actually being carried out;

  • Participate in any treatment planning conferences and reviews involving the child to assess whether reasonable efforts are being made to provide services to the child and family and determine the appropriateness and progress of the child's permanent plan;

  • Advocate a prompt, thorough review of the case if the child's circumstances warrant the attention of the court;

  • Interview parties involved in the case, including interviewing and observing the child;

  • Maintain complete written records about the case;

  • Report any incidents of child or adult abuse or neglect to the appropriate authorities and to the program director;

  • Remain actively involved in the case until dismissed from the case by the program director or judge with competent jurisdiction, or when an adoption proceeding is finalized.

  • Return all case-related materials including, but not limited to, written notes, court reports, and agency documents, to the program director upon the request of the program director, and

  • Work with team members to advocate for the best interest of the child.

Although CASA volunteers work with others involved in the case, they remain independent.
   
  Q: What kind of support would I have from the CASA staff?
  A: The CASA Director provides direct support. The Director attends court, assists in preparing reports and is available to provide advice and guidance to the volunteer. The Director also provides training and locates resources for volunteers.
   
  Q: What if I can't be an Advocate but still want to help?
  A: There are many other ways that you can help CASA, including simply spreading the word to others. We often need help with special events, mailings, clerical duties and fundraising activities.