Serve Foster Youth as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)

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Be a voice for local foster youth! CASA of Cuyahoga County recruits, trains, and supports community-based CASA volunteers-Court Appointed Special Advocates- who act as independent fact-finders for the Cuyahoga County Juvenile Court in local foster youth cases involving child abuse and neglect. CASAs collect information that helps jurists make the best decision for a safe, caring, and permanent home for children and youth involved in our juvenile justice and child welfare systems. CASAs are everyday citizens who are trained and appointed by the court to advocate for the safety and well-being of children who are at risk of abuse, neglect, dependency, and aging-out of the foster care system. CASAs are assigned at the earliest stages of a child's case, and continue to be an advocate for the child through their time in the court system. CASAs work collaboratively with all parties on the case, including attorneys, GALs, parents, and CCDCFS child protection specialists, to promote the best interests of children. CASAs must be eligible to spent at least 10 hours a month advocating for their court-assigned child. The CASA is responsible for the investigation, facilitation, advocacy, and monitoring of the assigned child's case of abuse, neglect, and/or dependency, and to represent the child's best interests. Volunteer Requirements: At least 21 years of age; have access to transportation; pass background checks & screening; complete 30 hours of training; respect and relate to people of various backgrounds; gather and record factual information accurately; communicate effectively; maintain objectivity/perspective; work within established program policies and procedures, and accept supervision from paid program staff. Take a stand ~ Make a difference ~ Change a life ~ Get Involved Today! Those interested in becoming a CASA, visit https://cfadvocates.org/ to apply or call 216.296.3799 for more information.