Change A
Child's Story.™
Become A CASA Volunteer
Volunteer WITH
EDDY COUNTY CASa
Volunteers are the heartbeat of our organization. Eddy County CASA volunteers advocate for the rights and needs of children in the foster care system. It's a commitment that requires passion, training, and a desire to make a real difference. Ready to step up? View the description of what it means to volunteer with us and start your journey towards becoming a CASA volunteer!
Is volunteering with CASA Right for You?
When you hear about a child experiencing abuse or neglect, you wish there was something you could do to help.
There is.
As a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), you'll be a trained volunteer who speaks up for a child's best interests while they navigate the child welfare system. CASA volunteers are not foster parents, attorneys, or social workers. They are everyday community members who are committed to ensuring every child has a voice.
There is no "perfect" CASA volunteer. Whether you're employed full time, retired, a student, or a stay at home parent, what matters most is your commitment to making a difference. We provide the training, resources, and ongoing support. You bring your compassion and dedication.
The Role of a CASA Volunteer
As a CASA volunteer, you will:
- Conduct an independent investigation by gathering information about the child's circumstances.
- Build relationships with the child and the professionals involved in their case.
- Monitor the child's well being and ensure court orders are being followed.
- Submit objective recommendations and reports to the court.
- Be a consistent, caring adult and advocate throughout the child's journey.
Volunteer Requirements
To become a CASA volunteer, you must:
- Be at least 21 years of age
- Pass a criminal background check
- Complete 30 hours of training
Time Commitment
Being a CASA volunteer is a meaningful commitment.
Volunteers are asked to:
- Dedicate approximately 3 to 4 hours each week
- Commit to remaining with a child's case until it reaches permanency, typically around 24 months
- Attend court hearings and maintain regular contact with the child and those involved in their case
FAQ:
DO I NEED TO HAVE ANY SPECIAL SKILLS TO BECOME A CASA VOLUNTEER?
No special background or education is required to become a CASA volunteer. We encourage people from all backgrounds and professions to join our volunteer program. Once accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of abused and neglected children.
How much time does it take to be a CASA volunteer?
All volunteers must complete a 30-hour pre-service training. The time commitment to a case varies depending upon the stage of the case. Volunteers sometimes say that there is a greater amount of work in the beginning of the case, when they are conducting their initial research. On average, you can expect to spend approximately 10 hours a month on a case.
Exactly what does a CASA volunteer do?
CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court and other settings. The primary responsibilities of a CASA volunteer are to:
- Gather information: Review documents and records, interview the children, family members, and professionals in their lives.
- Document findings: Provide written reports at court hearings.
- Appear in court: Advocate for the child's best interests and provide testimony when necessary.
- Explain what is going on: Help the child understand the court proceedings.
- "Be the glue": Seek cooperative solutions among individuals and organizations involved in the children's lives. As one volunteer said: Be the glue that connects the pieces in a complicated child welfare system.
- Recommend services: Ensure that the children and their family are receiving appropriate services and advocate for those that are not immediately available. Bring concerns about the child's health, education, mental health, etc. to the appropriate professionals.
- Monitor case plans and court orders: Check to see that plans are being followed and mandated review hearings are being held.
- Keep the court informed: Update the court on developments with agencies and family members. Ensure that appropriate motions are filed on behalf of the child so the court knows about any changes in the child's situation.
What sort of support will I receive?
You will be supported every step of the way by your case supervisor. You will have opportunities for continuing education locally through Mesilla Valley CASA and have access to online resources provided by the National CASA Association, including a resource library, national Facebook community and national conference.
