Prospective Volunteers
Learn more about how CASA makes a difference.
What We Do
A CASA volunteer is appointed by a judge to provide information and recommendations that aid the court in making decisions that are in the best interest of the child. The role of a CASA can be divided into three parts. As a fact finder the CASA gathers information about the case by reviewing records, interviewing the child, parents, family members, social workers, school officials and any other resource the advocate feels may have pertinent information. They then act as an advocate providing a voice for the child in the courtroom that includes both the child’s wishes and their best interest. Based on the information they have gathered and collaboration with the social worker and attorney, the CASA submits a detailed report to the court with recommendations that will assist the child while they are in foster care. Finally, the CASA acts as a monitor for the court to ensure that its past and present orders are being implemented. The CASA volunteer follows the case until it reaches a swift and appropriate conclusion.
How We Do It
CASA volunteers become extremely important to the children they serve. Because a CASA volunteer is generally assigned to one child or sibling group at a time, they can focus solely on the child’s needs. They are able to see the child regularly and become a consistent figure in proceedings. The average time volunteered by a CASA is 10–15 hours per month.
CASA volunteers are well prepared for their position. Potential volunteers undergo extensive interviews, a background screening, and 37 hours of pre-service training before they are able to accept a case. The training focuses on the role of a CASA volunteer, courtroom procedure, social services, the juvenile justice system, and the special needs of abused and neglected children. Volunteers participate in in-service training once a month, which gives the volunteers the opportunity to remain current on pertinent issues and the chance to discuss their own concerns. Each CASA volunteer receives one-on-one case supervision which enables CASA staff and volunteers to ensure the highest quality service is being offered to the children.
To learn more about volunteering for CASA and to watch a brief video, visit: www.speakforthechildren.org.
Download the CASA volunteer job description or volunteer application as Microsoft Word files.
Friend of CASA
If you do not have the time available to become a CASA volunteer, consider becoming a Friend of CASA. Friends of CASA can contribute on a fixed schedule or project by project basis. Consider the following opportunities:
- Administrative Assistance: Assist office staff with clerical duties; such as answering telephones, making telephone calls to relay information to volunteers, helping with mailings, and photocopying.
- Fundraising: Assist staff and/or Board Fundraising Committee with fundraising activities, including raffles, auctions, identifying fund sources, grant research, etc.
- Special Events: Participate in the planning and coordination of special events, such as volunteer recognition events, receptions, silent auctions, etc.
- Public Relations/Recruitment: Prepare P.R. material prior to special events, periodically distribute P.R. material to local organizations (e.g. libraries, clubs, churches, etc.), speak to individuals and organizations on behalf of CASA, Prince George’s County, update media contact list, etc.
- Professional Services: Provide pro-bono or discounted services (e.g. printing, accounting, etc.). Businesses that donate goods and/or services receive acknowledgement in our newsletter.
- Create Your Own Project: CASA, Prince George’s County will gladly consider projects and ideas other than those previously listed.
Current Volunteers
You asked for it, and we listened! We have put together a Volunteer Toolkit and a number of reference materials and resources that make advocating for the children we serve a little easier. We look forward to hearing your feedback!
