| What is CASA?
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are trained
volunteers involved in helping the courts deal with the overwhelmingly
difficult and costly increase in child abuse cases in Texas. The CASA
volunteer is the most consistent person in a child's life that
provides the only independent voice for each abused child.
What Does a CASA Volunteer Do?
A CASA volunteer becomes an independent, objective
observer who makes recommendations to the Court regarding the child's
best interest. To do this, a CASA will meet the child, the parents,
foster parents, caseworker, teacher, the attorney ad litem, and any
others who have relevant information concerning the case. A CASA
volunteer will then write a report, make recommendations, appear in
court, and monitor the progress of the Court-prescribed plan. The CASA
volunteer performs these durites with only one thought in mind-to
protect the best interest of the child. A CASA volunteer usually will
handle only one case at a time, and remain on the case until it is
complete.
Who Are CASA Volunteers?
CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens. No special or
professional background is required. Volunteers will, however, be
carefully screened for the following characteristics.
- A concern for children and the genuine desire to
help
- The ability to remain objective and the maturity
to deal with emotional situations
- Awareness and Sensitivity to cultural and ethnic
differences
- A willingness to devote approximately one year to
complete an assigned case
- The commitment to complete a 30-hour training
- Age 21 or over
Are there
easier volunteer opportunities in our community? Certainly. But none
are more vital to the life of an abused or neglected child.
What Does CASA Offer?
CASA volunteers offer children trust and advocacy
during the complex court proceedings. There is no other program where
volunteers are court appointed to represent the CHILD's best interest.
The CASA volunteer has a significant impact on the child and even
helps to shape the child's future.
Is There a CASA Training?
CASA volunteers will be fully trained and prepared
prior to court appointment. Each volunteer attends a 30 hour training
program including presentations by social workers, lawyers, judges and
other professionals. The CASA office offers continued training,
supervision, and support at all times.
View training for the next volunteer training.
Become a CASA Volunteer
Download Volunteer Form
Kids Should be Seen
Not Hurt
Prevent Child Abuse, Call
1-800-252-5400
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