CASA is not your typical volunteer opportunity. That's okay, we're not looking for typical volunteers!
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is the only volunteer program that trains and empowers everyday citizens so they can make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children.
Our volunteer advocates come from every walk of life and share a commitment to improving children’s lives, a willingness to learn and an open mind towards life experiences different from their own. No special education, experience or background is needed!
In an overburdened social welfare system, abused and neglected children can slip through the cracks because the focus is often on their parents. CASA volunteers change that! These committed community members ensure that each child's individual needs remain a priority. Appointed by the child's attorney or a judge, CASA volunteers typically handle one case at a time—and commit to stay on that case until the child is placed in a safe, permanent home, usually one year. While case workers may come and go, CASA advocates provide the consistency that a child needs in order to thrive.
Advocates will visit the children twice a month, advocate for services, gather information from the child’s family, teachers, therapists, caregivers, and anyone else involved in the child’s life in order to make independent and informed recommendations to help the judge decide what’s best for the child. They are the one party on a child's case that is unpaid, they do this work because they care. It is an incredible opportunity to make a difference.
Our use of volunteers isn't about lack of funds to hire staff, but is a deliberate choice! Our volunteers provide a community perspective, wide range of backgrounds and experience, empathy, a person the youth can connect to while navigating an uncertain time of their lives.
