The Court Appointed Special Advocate or CASA is appointed by a judge to advocate for the long-term best interest of a child who has experienced abuse and/or neglect. While situations vary, all children we serve have the need for stability and the right to permanency. CASAs regularly meet or speak with the child, family, foster family, DHS case manager, service providers, therapist, teachers, relatives, attorneys and others involved in that child’s life.
Special education and expertise is not required; what is needed is an ability to work with people and communicate effectively, both verbally and in written form. All applicants will complete a personal interview and must pass a complete background check in order to work with a child. Applicants will receive 30 hours of mandatory pre-service training about the child welfare system, working with children and families and the CASA roles of investigator, facilitator, reporter and monitor. Once assigned to a case, the time commitment is more flexible; CASAs average 5-10 hours each month on a case.
I encourage you to check out our website at https://childadvocacy.iowa.gov for more information about this program. If you are interested in applying to serve as a CASA you can apply by clicking the "application" link on the CASA Webpage: https://childadvocacy.iowa.gov/casa-advocate . Or Call Jennifer Gericke @ (319)362-0829
This is the simple act of person helping person and making an extraordinary difference.
No additional volunteer opportunities at this time.
411 3rd St SE, Suite 720, Cedar Rapids, IA 52401, US
The Iowa Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program commissions community volunteers to serve as an effective voice in court for abused and neglected children, strenghtening efforts to ensure that each child is living in a safe, permanent and nurturing home.
Recruite and train community volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in juvenile court.
411 3rd STREET SE STE 720Cedar Rapids, IA 52401
August 25, 2023