CASA Volunteer Advocate

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ORGANIZATION: CASA of Mercer County, Inc.

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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are trained community volunteers who are appointed by a judge to provide advocacy for children who have been placed in foster care due to abuse and/or neglect. Supported by our Case Supervisors, CASAs serve as the "eyes and ears of the court and the voice of the child". Under the guidance of the CASA staff, volunteer advocates will:

1. Conduct an independent investigation and gather facts to ascertain the needs of the child
2. Visit the child at least once per month
3. Advocate for the best interest of the child through child-centered, fact-based recommendations through written reports to the court and attendance at court proceedings

CASA volunteers must pass criminal and child welfare background checks, commit to at least 12 months of service, communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, be at least 21 years old and posses a valid driver's license and have access to a vehicle as local travel is required. CASAs must complete a comprehensive 30 hours training program and will be required to complete 12 hours of continuing education per year.

For more information visit our website, www.casamercer.org, give us a call at 609-434-0050, or email our Advocate Recruiter, Marisa Gilmore at mgilmore@casamercer.org.