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CASA (Volunteer Court-Appointed Special Advocate)
BASIC FUNCTION
A CASA is a trained community volunteer appointed by a district or family court judge to speak for the best interests of an abused and/or neglected child. A CASA volunteer is an official part of the judicial proceedings, working alongside attorneys and social workers. By handling only one or two cases at a time, a CASA volunteer has time to thoroughly explore the history and circumstances of each assigned case.
CASA of South Mississippi pledges to recruit board members, staff and volunteers that are diverse and reflect the population and the needs of the children we serve. To that end, opportunities and services will be equally open to all and will not be restricted based on race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender, gender identity and gender expression, marital status, veteran status, physical abilities or national origin.
SUPERVISION
Direct supervision and guidance is provided by the Advocate Supervisor(s). CASA volunteers enter contact logs into an online data system (OPTIMA).
DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
Complete an extensive, independent review of each case:- Meet face-to-face with child at least once every thirty (30) days?
- Speak with the child and relevant adults (parents, family members, school officials, doctors, and others involved in the child’s life who might have facts about the case)
- Review appropriate records and reports Observe the child and significant others
- Provide a written report containing factual information to the CASA program office one week prior to every hearing
- Attend court hearings concerning the child
- Attend all court hearings to see that all relevant facts are presented
- Attend appropriate interagency meetings regarding the child
- Participate in case conferences concerning the child
- Ensure that the judicial and child welfare systems are moving ahead to secure a safe, permanent home for the child
- Ensure that court-ordered services are provided to the child and family
- Develop a case plan
- Review progress and reports
TRAINING/SUPPORT PLAN
• Volunteers are required to attend approximately 30 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of
in-service training annually.
• Volunteers follow guidelines established by the National CASA Association.
• Volunteers have access to additional training opportunities offered by other agencies.
• Volunteers receive direct supervision and guidance from program staff.
TIME COMMITMENT
• Volunteers are required to make a twelve-month commitment to the program.
• Volunteers are required to attend court hearings on their cases—up to five per year or as
determined by your Advocate Supervisor.
• Volunteers are expected to be available for case assignment and to accept cases immediately upon completion of pre-service training unless other arrangements have been made.
KNOWLEDGE & SKILLS
• Ability to keep all client and court information confidential
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Ability to respect and relate to people from various backgrounds
• Ability to transport self
• Ability to maintain objectivity
• A basic understanding of child development and family relationships
• Good common sense
• Does not require specific educational training beyond a high school diploma or GED
BENEFITS
Although we cannot provide you with monetary rewards, there are many benefits to being a CASA volunteer. These include the opportunity to:
• Make a difference in the life and future of a child who has been a victim of abuse and/or neglect
• Help a child find permanency in a safe, loving home
• Assist judges in obtaining a clear picture of a child’s life and needs
• Gain an understanding of district and family courts, legal proceedings, and social service agencies
• Develop/utilize communication skills
• Develop/utilize assertiveness
• Utilize your past experience/skills
• Form friendships with like-minded people in your community
