What is the CASA volunteer’s role?
CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens. They work alongside attorneys and caseworkers as appointed officers of the court after they have completed training. Each volunteer is assigned a case and gathers information about the child and his or her individual needs. The information provided by CASA volunteers is useful and appreciated by the court. This information includes:
- Insights obtained from the child (if age appropriate), parents, relatives, neighbors, friends, DHS caseworkers, foster parents, school faculty, doctors, counselors, and law enforcement officers.
- Documentation of facts and professional opinions that assist in determining the child’s personal needs.
- Prepared written court report, with recommendations, for the judge.
- Providing testimony at court hearings, if necessary.
Can anyone volunteer to be a CASA?
CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens. No special legal background is required. However,volunteers must be at least 21 years old and are screened closely for objectivity, competence, and commitment.
What training does a CASA volunteer receive?
CASA volunteers are required to undergo at least 30 hours of pre-service training before being assigned a case. The pre-service/initial training includes:
- Learning about the roles and responsibilities of a CASA volunteer
- Juvenile court process
- The dynamics of the social, economic, intellectual, mental health, and substance abuse issues associated with child abuse and neglect
- Relevant state and federal laws
- Confidentiality and record keeping practices
- Advocacy
- The special needs of the children served including differences in cultural and socioeconomic norms, values, and heritage
- Identification of personal and institutional bias or discrimination as it relates to the children and families being served.
The initial training includes an opportunity for each volunteer to visit the court while it is in session to observe proceedings. The CASA volunteer is required to complete at least 10 hours of in-service training per year thereafter. Opportunities are provided monthly to meet this requirement.
How much time does it require?
Each case is different. A CASA volunteer usually spends about 15 hours per month doing research and conducting interviews when a case first opens. More complicated cases can take longer. Cases are expected to be open for 12-15 months. After the case has been open 1- 3 months the time spent on the case may range from 5 to 15 hours per month, depending on the level of parental involvement and the needs and location of the child.
How long does a CASA volunteer remain involved with a case?
One of the primary benefits for the child with a CASA Volunteer is that, unlike other people involved in the case such as attorneys, caseworkers, and foster parents, the CASA volunteer is a consistent presence in the case and provides continuity for the child. The volunteer should be prepared to commit to serving at least one year on a case. It is preferable if the volunteer continues until the case is permanently resolved.
What children are assigned to CASA volunteers?
All White County children who are victims of abuse and/or neglect and have a court involved protective services case are assigned CASA volunteers.