A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer is a trained community member appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of abused or neglected children in the child welfare system. They gather information, monitor the child's situation, and report directly to the court, providing a consistent, supportive presence for the child.
Information: CASA volunteers thoroughly review records and talk with the child, parents, family members, teachers, doctors, and others involved in the child's life.
Advocacy: They speak for the child’s best interests in court, ensuring their voice is heard, and advocate for their needs regarding safety, education, and health.
Court Reports: CASAs submit written reports to the judge before hearings, offering recommendations regarding the child’s placement, services, and permanent, safe home.
Support & Stability: Unlike social workers who may manage many cases, CASA volunteers usually manage one case at a time, providing a consistent, stable, and trusted adult figure in a child’s often chaotic life.
CASA volunteers work alongside attorneys, social workers, and other professionals. They are required to complete training. While they do not need to be lawyers or social workers, they must be able to work with children and families, maintain confidentiality, and be comfortable in a courtroom setting.
