CASA of Branch County

Description

Volunteers of the CASA of Branch County program are appointed by the Branch County Fifteenth Circuit Court to act as advocates for children in the Court's child protective proceedings. The CASA volunteer is mandated to provide to the Court with an independent assessment of all aspects of a child's life. The primary focus of this assessment is the best interests of the child(ren) regarding his/her physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In their role as an advocate, the CASA volunteer will meet with the child, as well as persons involved in the child(ren)'s life. These individuals may include, but are not limited to: natural parent(s), DHS caseworker, child(ren)'s attorney, primary caregiver, teachers, extended family members, and therapists. The CASA volunteer will present the gathered information and facts in written and oral reports to the Court and will include their recommendations regarding the best interests of the child(ren). Furthermore, the CASA volunteer will advocate for compliance with the Court's orders.