A CASA is a volunteer from the community, just like YOU. CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of children in foster care. They stay with their case until it’s closed and the children are in a safe and loving permanent home.
The Role of a CASA Volunteer
CASA volunteers get to know the child(ren) on their case while also gathering information from the biological and foster parents, teachers, doctors, therapists, caregivers, DHS caseworkers, and others in order to make independent and informed recommendations to help the judge decide what’s best for the child. They are a consistent adult presence for a child or sibling group throughout their entire case.
Typical tasks for CASA volunteers include:
- Visiting the child(ren) at least once a month
- Reviewing case files
- Gathering and documenting information
- Participating in staffings
- Writing court reports (a report of pertinent information and observations along with recommendations)
- Attending each court hearing (they typically take place once every three months)
