CASA provides a volunteer opportunity that can change not only the life of a child, but will prove to be a life-changing experience for you as well. As many Advocates have said of the children they worked with: "It wasn't about what I gave them, it was what they showed me."
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Our Outreach team would be happy to help you get started
Now enrolling for our upcoming virtual training classes! These classes fill up quickly so please contact us today.
See Upcoming Trainings Scheduled Here
How do I become a CASA volunteer?
Contact our Community Engagement Manager, Paige Otto, to register for an upcoming CASA 101 Informational Session or to learn more about the CASA Volunteer role, application and training process, and time commitment. Paige can be reached at paige@casa17th.com or 720.523.2839.
After connecting with our team, you will be sent an online application to complete, and your interview will be scheduled. After your interview, we will get you registered for an upcoming training class.
CASA Volunteer Job Description
Find An Upcoming Information Session
How much time does it take?
All Volunteer Advocates must complete a 30-hour pre-service training. Training classes are held both in-person and virtually. The time commitment 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 10-15 hours a month on a case.
Do I need to make a long-term commitment?
You are asked to dedicate yourself to a case until it is closed. The average case lasts about 18 months.
Do I need to have any special skills or meet any requirements?
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.
Successful CASA Volunteers are mature, empathetic, collaborative and confident. They have an ability to problem-solve and have strong written and verbal communication skills. Lastly, they possess a willingness to learn, and an open mind towards life experiences different from their own.
Requirements include:
- Be 21 years old
- Be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references and participate in an interview
- Complete a minimum of 30 hours of pre-service training
- Complete 12 hours of continuing education yearly
- Have lived in the United States the last seven years
- Be able to successfully pass two separate background checks
- Be available for court appearances, with advance notice
- Be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed
Exactly what does a CASA Volunteer do?
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.
What sort of support will I receive?
You will be supported every step of the way. You will be assigned to a supervisor to support you and answer questions and will have opportunities for continuing education in addition to access to online resources.