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6 people are interested
CASA Volunteer *Virtual Availability*
ORGANIZATION: Lake County CASA Program
Please visit the new page to apply.
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6 people are interested
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained and specialized advocate that represents the best interests of abused and neglected children. In Lake County, CASA advocates represent children who have court involvement with the Department of Child Services through a Child in Need of Services (CHINS) case. The CASA is one of the three legal parties in the court proceedings regarding the child.
Simply put, a CASA serves as the voice of the child and the eyes and ears of the court. A CASA advocate specializes in establishing what is in the best interest of the child. The advocate will talk with the child, parents, social workers, teachers, medical providers, foster parents, and others who know the child. After gathering the information, the CASA makes recommendations to the court on things including, but not limited to, the child’s placement, medical care, schooling, counseling, and visitation. These recommendations assist the Court in making its rulings.
Lake County CASA utilizes trained community volunteers to assist us in our mission to serve all of our local children. Our volunteers are an integral part of the success of the Lake County CASA Program. Lake County is required by Indiana statutes to provide abused and neglected children with best interest representation in juvenile court. As a result, every child involved in a CHINS case is appointed a CASA to advocate in their best interests.
Potential CASA Volunteers complete a screening process that entails a detailed application, a series of background checks, and an interview. Potential volunteers then participate in a 30-hour initial training that teaches volunteers the basics of child welfare law, child advocacy, and prepares them for their casework as a CASA advocate.
***Due to COVID-19- We are following all CDC and state standards. This is a great time to begin the Journey of being a CASA by attending virtual training and familiarizing yourself with casework. Kids need CASA now more than ever!
More opportunities with Lake County CASA Program
No additional volunteer opportunities at this time.
About Lake County CASA Program
Location:
Lake County Juvenile Justice Complex, 3000 W. 93rd Avenue, Crown Point, IN 46307, US
Mission Statement
The Lake County CASA Program's mission is to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children; ensuring that all children will have a safe, permanent, and nurturing home by providing each child a professional level of advocacy throughout their involvement in the child welfare system.
Description
Simply put, a CASA serves as the voice of the child and the eyes and ears of the court. A CASA advocate specializes in establishing what is in the best interest of the child. The advocate will talk with the child, parents, social workers, teachers, medical providers, foster parents, and others who know the child. After gathering the information, the CASA makes recommendations to the court on things including, but not limited to, the child’s placement, medical care, schooling, counseling, and visitation. These recommendations assist the Court in making its rulings.
CAUSE AREAS
WHEN
WHERE
3000 West 93rd Ave.Crown PointCrown Point, IN 46307
DATE POSTED
February 3, 2021
SKILLS
- Youth Services
- Child Welfare
- Crisis Intervention
- Family Law
- Advocacy
- Child Advocacy
GOOD FOR
- People 55+
REQUIREMENTS
- Background Check
- Must be at least 21
- Orientation or Training
- We ask that volunteers commit to one year of service, and spend approximately 12 hours working with CASA per month.
- Potential CASA Volunteers complete a screening process that entails a detailed application, a series of background checks, and an interview. Potential volunteers then participate in a 30-hour initial training that teaches CASA policy and procedure.