Every year hundreds of abused and neglected children from our community are in need of safe, permanent, nurturing homes. CASA was created to make sure the abuse and neglect these children originally suffered at home doesn't continue as abuse and neglect at the hands of the system. As trained advocates, CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to be a voice for these children in Court. Our volunteers gather information about an abused or neglected child's history, living situation, and needs. Volunteers interview the child's parents, family members, therapists, teachers, and other professionals familiar with the situation and then submit a written report of their findings to the Court.

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers are ordinary people who are committed to doing what is best for a child. All our volunteers are trained in courtroom procedure, social services, the juvenile justice system, and the special needs of abused and neglected children. You must be at least 21 years of age and have time to devote to training, investigating the child’s circumstances, and appearing in court. We welcome volunteers from all cultures, professions, and ethnic and educational backgrounds. In the last two years, Chesterfield CASA has been appointed to an increasing number of Hispanic children. Accordingly, there is a need for bilingual volunteers to better serve children and families. There is always a need for male volunteers to provide advocacy and serve as a positive male role model, particularly for older youth.

Chesterfield CASA's next training session will begin in August 2022. Please reach out to Annie Duffy at annie@chesterfieldcasa.org for more information about how to apply.

If you are interested in learning more about CASA, please email annie@chesterfieldcasa.org to register for our next virtual information session on June 30, 2022 at 6:00 p.m. This will be an opportunity to learn more about CASA and get answers to any questions about volunteering.

COVID-19 UPDATE

During the pandemic there continues to be a need for advocacy for children experiencing abuse and neglect. Chesterfield CASA continues to screen and train new volunteers, but our interview and training process are now conducted virtually. Training is offered in the Spring and Fall and applications are accepted throughout the year. CASA volunteers continue to fulfill their duties, but in many cases are conducting home visits virtually or socially distanced in an outdoor setting.