Volunteer as an Advocate for Abused and Neglected Children

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Boone County CASA is always looking for committed volunteers who want to make a difference in the life of a child. The following questions can help you determine if being a CASA volunteer is the right volunteer opportunity for you. What is a CASA? CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. A CASA is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by the Family Court Judge to advocate for the best interest of an abused, neglected, or dependent child in Boone County. What does a CASA volunteer do? CASAs perform three roles: factfinder for the judge; court advocate for the child; and monitor of the home situation. After being appointed by the judge, the CASA makes a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the child?s life. The CASA interviews everyone who may have information about the child?s situation including the child, parents and other relatives, foster parents, school personnel, and medical and law enforcement personnel when necessary. The CASA then prepares a report for the judge including recommendations for remedying the child?s situation. The CASA attends the court hearings to advocate for the child?s best interest. After the judges puts on the orders, the CASA stays involved to monitor the situation and assure that the court?s orders are carried out. What are the requirements to be a CASA volunteer? Under Kentucky Revised Statute 620.515, the minimum requirements for a CASA volunteer are: Be at least 21 years of age Be of good moral character Complete a written application providing the names of at least three references Submit to a personal interview with CASA staff Submit to a criminal record check Submit to a check of the child abuse and adult protection registry What is the monthly time commitment? This varies depending on the case. Monitoring a case may take as little as 2 hours a month. During the investigation phase, you may spend 20 hours. Is training required? Yes. KRS 620.515 mandates 15 hours of initial training for CASA volunteers. How can I get an application? Call (859)586-1222 and request an application. Our voice mail is available 24 hours a day. Or you can e-mail your request to dmullins@boonecountyky.org. How else can I help? Boone County CASA also needs volunteers to work at special events or for speaking engagements. Contact us at the above phone number or e-mail address. -