Become a CASA
How to become a CASA volunteer
Our volunteers are everyday people from all walks of life with a variety of professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. You do not need any specialized skills to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer. Most of our volunteers work full time and are able to see the child(ren) nights and weekends. What they have in common is a desire to make a difference in a child’s life. Would you like to make that difference? Apply today for an upcoming training!
Step 1: Submit your contact information using the form below.
Step 2: Complete and submit a CASA Volunteer Application.
Step 3: Complete all pre-training paperwork, participate in an interview and clear a background check.
Step 4: Sign-up for the next pre-service training session. Three to four times per year, we offer a 30+ hour training session that helps volunteers learn how to advocate for the best interest of children who are under the legal protection of the court system due to abuse or neglect. Training typically takes place on Wednesday evenings and one full Saturday session. Use the link above this list to view the upcoming training schedule.
The pre-service training curriculum, developed by the National CASA/GAL Association for Children and facilitated by our staff, includes sections that guide you through the role of the CASA volunteer, the child welfare system, needs and development of children, trauma, mental health, poverty, professional communication, cultural competence, educational needs and permanency. Course material will help prepare you to advocate for a child.
Step 5: After all of your paperwork is completed and a full training session is also completed, you are sworn in as an official Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteer by the court and will be assigned your first case. You will be partnered with a Kids Matter CASA Program Manager, who provides ongoing support.
