Question 1

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

Accepted Answer

All volunteers must complete 30 hours of pre-service training. This is completed in 3 hour class modules, and all new advocates are sworn in by the Juvenile Court Magistrate. 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 10-12 hours a month on a case.

Question 2

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

Accepted Answer

You are asked to dedicate yourself to a case until it is closed. The average case lasts about a year and a half. We ask that a volunteer commit to serve for at least one year.

Question 3

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

Accepted Answer

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.  You will also receive guidance, support, and supervision from CASA staff for the duration of your child(ren)'s case.

Requirements include:

•  Be 21 years old
•  Complete necessary background checks, provide references, and participate in an interview 
•  Complete 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

Question 4

Exactly what does a CASA volunteer do?

Accepted Answer

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: 
Review documents and records, interview 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.

Question 5

Are there other volunteer opportunites than becoming an advocate?

Accepted Answer

Yes! There are several. One is to become a board member of our organization.
 
All Board Members are expected to be active participants in the organization through board meetings, committee activities, and other related activities.
 
General expectations of board members are:
1.    Become knowledgeable about the organization through attendance at monthly board meetings and understanding of by-laws and the personnel policies and procedures.
2.    Recruit possible nominees to the Board who can make contributions to the work of the Board and the organization.
3.    Serve on committees set forth in the Robertson County CASA by-laws.
Relationships with the Community:
4.    Interpret the organization to community members.
5.    Develop linkages through community partnerships.

Fiduciary Responsibilities:
Faithfully read and understand the organization’s financial statements and otherwise help the Board fulfill its fiduciary responsibility.

Resource Development:
Assist in resource development by providing contacts through personal and/or business associations.
 
We also have volunteer opportunities at our events and fundraisers.

Lend Your Voice

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Frequently asked questions

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

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

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

Exactly what does a CASA volunteer do?

Are there other volunteer opportunites than becoming an advocate?

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