CASA- Court Appointed Special Advocate

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Child Enrichment CASA is looking for some passionate people who would like to give their voice to speak up for abused and neglected children in foster care.

Child Enrichment s CASA Program is nationally and state-accredited. Our CASA program trains community volunteers who are appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child involved in juvenile court deprivation proceedings. A CASA’s ultimate goal is to make recommendations to the judge on what / where is the safest permanent placement for that child. Child Enrichment's CASA Program has been serving abused and neglected children in the Augusta Judicial Circuit for over 20 years. In July of 2019, the program expanded to include the Toombs Judicial Circuit.

A CASA volunteer protects a child's right to be safe, to be treated with dignity and respect, and to learn and grow in the safe embrace of a loving family.

When a child or sibling group are removed from their parents, temporarily, a Juvenile Court Judge will appoint a person from Child Enrichment’s Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program. Our promise to each child is that we will stay involved with them until they have a safe and permanent home.

• Just last year, 405 children were served

• Referrals originate from Juvenile Court Judges

• Collaboration with counselors, doctors, religious organizations, schools, and other agencies

• Assessing the safety of the home

• Understanding the educational, emotional, and health needs of each child

• Assessing each possible caregiver for the ability to provide for the child or sibling group

• Provision of a comprehensive report to the Judge which is used to determine the best placement for each child.

• Best placement determinations are all about the "best interests" and meeting all needs of each child

• All services are free of charge for child victims.

• CASA is a stabilizing force for these children.

CASA Volunteers help save the emotional and physical lives of children who experience abuse and neglect. CASA Volunteers agree to stay involved with their child client or sibling group until each has a safe and permanent home. Requirements include:

• Must be 21 years of age

• Complete an application and screening interview

• Complete a GBI / FBI Criminal Background Check

• Complete 30 hours of (virtual) Classroom training

• Complete 3 hours of Courtroom observation

• Accept assignment to represent a child or sibling group by the Juvenile Court Judge

• Meet with the child or sibling group and become fully informed about all aspects of their lives: Familial; School; Medical, Dental; Emotional, etc.

• Meet with the children regularly

• Compose and complete comprehensive reports which will be utilized by the Judge to make decisions about future considerations

• Complete documentation and other forms to comply with quality care standards

• Attend all Juvenile Court Hearings, and testify as is necessary

• Attend planning sessions about each child’s future

• Work cooperatively with all parties involved

• YOU could be the key to helping a child survive and thrive!

Fill out our inquiry form at www.childenrichment.org/casa-volunteer-training and a staff member will reach out to you. Thanks for your interest!