Volunteer to Give a Voice to a Child
Nobody longs for a safe and loving family more than a child who is need of protection from the courts due to abuse or neglect. As a court appointed special advocate (CASA) volunteer, you are empowered by the courts to help make this dream a reality. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but also their children and generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.
What do CASA for Kids Volunteers Do?
Volunteers get to know the child by talking with everyone in that child’s life: parents and relatives, foster parents, teachers, medical professionals, attorneys, social workers and others. They use the information they gather to inform judges and others of what the child needs and what will be the best permanent home for them.
Who can be a CASA for Kids Volunteer?
A CASA for Kids volunteer is an ordinary individual at least 21 years of age with a high school diploma. Volunteers are chosen for their objectivity, competence and commitment to children.
CASA for Kids Volunteers complete 30 hours of training prior to receiving an assignment. During this training, CASAs learn about things like the Juvenile Courts proceedings, issues of abuse and neglect, cultural diversity, trauma, and self care. Your CASA for Kids Case Manager will introduce you to the court process by observing cases within the courts. They will be there throughout your time as a volunteer to offer support, input, and encouragement.
Next Steps:
1. Contact Jessie Fortuna, CASA for Kids Director at jfortuna@ywcalax.org or 608-781-2783, ext. 224
2. Complete the CASA for Kids Volunteer Application
CASA Volunteer Optima: Click here