CASA is the only volunteer organization that empowers everyday citizens as appointed members of the court. In an overburdened social welfare system, abused and neglected children often slip through the cracks. CASA volunteers change that!
Volunteers in CASA's Dependency & Neglect (D&N) Program advocate for children who are involved with the Department of Human Services and Family Court System because of abuse or neglect they have experienced at home.
What exactly do Court Appointed Special Advocates do?
Many times, people are confused about what a CASA volunteer's role is. Once you decide to become a CASA, you'll go through a screening process and initial training which includes topics such as child development, cultural competency, physical and emotional abuse, domestic violence, and an overview of the juvenile court process. After that, you will be sworn in as an officer of the court and appointed as an independent party to the proceedings of a Dependency & Neglect Case (which could involve a single child OR a sibling group). As you take on your first case, you'll have the support of an entire team behind you and there will be plenty of people available to answer your questions or help you work through issues. Once you get started on your case, some of your responsibilities may include:
Visit with the child or children on your case at least twice a month
Gather information by reviewing documents and interviewing children, family members, and other professionals in their lives
Attend meetings with other parties (attorneys, caseworkers, etc.)
Help the child understand court proceedings; Explain what is going on
Research and investigate all aspects of a child's life
Direct child and family members to appropriate community resources
Monitor family compliance with the treatment plan and court orders
Appear in court to advocate for the child and provide testimony
Make recommendations to the court through written and oral reports
Work with Life Long Links Specialists to search for and interview family members to ensure foster children have continuity in relationships, family information, and long-term connections for the future
Visit https://www.casappr.org/programs/dependency-neglect to learn more!
418 South Weber St., Colorado Springs, CO 80903, US
Mission Statement
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) provide a voice in court for children who are victims of abuse, neglect or domestic conflict and promotes community awareness of these issues to ensure safe and permanant homes.
Description
Nobody longs for a safe and loving family more than a child in foster care. As a CASA volunteer, you are empowered by the courts to help make this dream a reality. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but also their children and generations to come. And in doing so, you will enrich your life as well.
Children & Youth
Community
Justice & Legal
WHEN
We'll work with your schedule.
WHERE
400 West US Hwy 24, Ste. 225Woodland Park, CO80866
(38.9918,-105.064)
DATE POSTED
February 16, 2021
SKILLS
Networking
People Skills
Problem Solving
Relationship Building
Critical Thinking
Youth Services
GOOD FOR
N/A
REQUIREMENTS
Driver's License Needed
Background Check
Must be at least 21
Orientation or Training
Approximately 2 - 5 hours per week for 16 - 18 months.
