CASA of Yavapai County

Description

The CASA program in Yavapai County began in January of 1989. Our goal is to have an advocate appointed to every child in foster care. The number of children in foster care fluctuates, as do the number of CASAs we have available to advocate for them. Advocates are provided with over 30 hours of training, must be at least 21 years old, and able to pass a background check and polygraph exam. CASA staff fully supports all advocates and are available to "walk with" advocates during their time as a volunteer with our program. You will not be on this journey alone! Anyone interested in the child welfare process, the legal system or considering becoming a foster parent will find this program interesting and helpful. No two cases are alike and other than completing the required training and going through the background check, no special skills are needed. Just a heart for children and the desire to make a difference. CASAs spend approximately 10-15 hours a month on their case. We are different than a program like Big Brothers/Big Sisters in that CASAs are NOT allowed to take children home. Your efforts are spent working with your assigned child's team and advocating for your CASA child while they are in the care and custody of the Department of Child Safety. This type of work is not for everybody but for those who do this work, they find it extremely rewarding.