Get Involved
Who is eligible to serve as a CASA?
- No special skills required
- Sincere care for the well-being of children
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Pass criminal background checks with no felony convictions
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to be objective and non-judgmental
- Available to attend all court hearings or at a minimum submit a written report to the judge
- Commitment to CASA program for at least one year or preferably until a case has been resolved
- Maintain confidentiality
- Complete the required initial training and annual in-service training
- Be committed to the child they are appointed to serve
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"You can make a difference in the lives of abused and neglected children in Sullivan County" |
What is involved in becoming a CASA?
As a CASA volunteer, you will ultimately help to change a child’s life for a brighter future. You can help to end the cycle of abuse and neglect.
Among many other benefits, you will have an opportunity to learn about the juvenile court system and become actively involved in your community.
- Complete an application, including 3 personal/professional references
- Undergo national criminal background checks
- Be interviewed by a CASA staff person
- Complete 30 hours of training
- Be sworn-in by the Judge
Responsibility of a CASA Volunteer
- Visit the child face-to-face
- Explain the role of a CASA volunteer
- Keep the child informed of all aspects of the court proceedings
- Gather independent information about the child to make recommendations to the judge in the child’s best interests
- Seek cooperative solutions with other participants in the child’s case
- Interview the parents, guardians or caretakers, social worker & other service providers
- Review records related to the family
- Attend and participate in court hearings or at a minimum prepare written reports for the judge and other related meetings if unable to attend.
- Identify potential resources within the family and community to meet the child’s needs
- Keep all records & information confidential
- Monitor provisions of service plans and court orders
- Ensure the child’s wishes are known to the judge
- Consult with local CASA program staff for support and guidance
- Maintain focus on the child until permanency is achieved
“CASA volunteers walk alongside the children as they go through a court process they never asked for nor probably want. The job is to give Judge Hunley one more tool to make a positive outcome for the child and family. But for the CASA program to work, we need volunteers.”
Former Sullivan County Director, Susie Pierce
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