Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

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*The number of children in foster care has risen since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially in recent months. The Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program works to help support neglected or abused children throughout Eastern Idaho.

A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a specially trained volunteer from the community who is appointed by the Court to represent the best interests of the child in court. The CASA helps ensure that the child's right to a safe, permanent home is acted upon in a sensitive and expedient manner and that progress is being made to achieve permanency for the child. The CASA does his/her own independent investigation of the facts of the case and reports the facts, along with his/her recommendations, to the Court.
Download an application at www.casa7.org/volunteer

Many potential volunteers ask us, "What all is involved with being a CASA volunteer?" and while the answer varies from case to case, the average volunteer spends 6-12 hours a month working a case. The 6-12 hours per month spent as a CASA volunteer generally involve a regular set of calls and visits that can be planned around your schedule. Court hearings are typically scheduled at least 30 days in advance so you will have plenty of time to plan accordingly. If there's ever a situation where you cannot attend court, your case manager can attend for you.

About the CASA Program:
The Judicial District VII CASA Program began serving children in April 1991 and serves children in Bingham, Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison and Teton Counties as appointed.

We are determined to provide a CASA volunteer for every abused and neglected child. Your support will help us achieve our vision. In the work of child advocacy, we may spend half a day negotiating to see that a child’s special needs are met, we may make fourteen phone calls in search of an aunt who hasn’t been heard from in six years, or we may talk to a parent who has made no progress with a rehab program. We may become frustrated and angry and overwhelmed. But we don’t stop we don’t give up. This advocacy in all of its persistence, diligence, and commitment is what it takes for children to have a chance at a safe, permanent home.

Who can volunteer? Anyone with a commitment to protecting the interests of children may apply for consideration as a CASA Volunteer. No special educational background is required but a volunteer must have the maturity to deal with complex emotional situations. S/he must possess sound decision making skills, and be able to remain objective and nonjudgmental. S/he must have a good rapport with children, have good communication skills, and have a sincere interest in the welfare of children. Each applicant is screened and fingerprinted for the safety of the children. You do not need any background in social work or any specific training to become a CASA Volunteer.

It is expected that volunteers commit to the program for at least two years. Mandatory Pre-Service training is provided to prospective volunteers. In-service training on relevant topics is also arranged on an ongoing basis (with 12 hours mandatory per year). In addition, the CASA Supervisor provides continuous assistance, advice, and guidance for volunteers. CASA volunteers are not compensated for their time; however, out-of-pocket expenses such as mileage and long distance telephone calls are reimbursable.

This program is an excellent opportunity for individuals in the community to become meaningfully involved in helping children. If you think you may have the appropriate skills and the time to commit to this program, please submit your application for consideration.