Frequently asked questions.
Whether you’re just starting to consider it or ready to take the next step, here’s what people ask most about becoming a CASA volunteer.
About CASA
A CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a trained community volunteer appointed by the juvenile court judge to be an independent voice for a child who has experienced abuse or neglect. You’re the only person in the courtroom whose sole job is to represent what’s best for that child.
CASA is the only program where volunteers are appointed by the court specifically to represent a child’s best interest. Social workers manage multiple cases. Attorneys have competing priorities. A CASA volunteer focuses on one child (or sibling group) at a time — with the time and attention to notice what others might miss.
You meet regularly with your assigned child, gather information from people in their life (teachers, doctors, caseworkers, foster parents), write reports for the judge, and attend court hearings to advocate for the child’s best interests. You become the one constant in a child’s life during a chaotic time.
Requirements & Time
Anyone 21 or older who can pass a background check. You must be able to remain objective and committed to the child’s best interest. No legal or social work experience required — we train you on everything.
Expect 15–20 hours in the first 4–6 weeks as you learn your case, conduct interviews, and write your first report. After that, about 2–4 hours per month for visits, check-ins, and court hearings.
We ask for a one-year commitment with at least monthly contact with your assigned child. Cases vary in length — some resolve in months, others take longer. If your case ends early, you may be assigned another child.
Training & Support
35 hours of instruction covering child welfare, court procedures, trauma-informed care, and report writing. Training is available self-paced or in-person. You’ll also complete at least 2 hours of court observation and be paired with an experienced CASA mentor.
After completing training, you’re sworn in before the Juvenile Court Judge, then matched with a child who needs you. Your case supervisor provides ongoing guidance throughout your case. When you’re unsure what to do next, we help you figure it out.
Absolutely. Every volunteer is paired with a mentor during training and assigned a case supervisor once sworn in. Your supervisor is always a phone call away for questions, concerns, or just to talk through a difficult situation. We also provide ongoing education and connect you with other volunteers who understand the work.
Common Concerns
Since 1991, we haven’t had an incident of a volunteer being harmed. You’re never required to enter a home or any situation where you feel uncomfortable. If concerns come up, your supervisor will help arrange alternatives.
The work can be emotional. But most volunteers say the reward of making a difference in a child’s life far outweighs the hard moments. You’re not alone — our staff supports you through difficult cases.
About the Organization
While volunteers donate their time, running the program requires staff to recruit, train, and supervise volunteers. Funds cover rent, salaries, equipment, travel expenses, and training materials — all while maintaining National CASA standards.
We’re supported by United Ways, fundraising events, annual giving campaigns, foundation grants, and state grants. Community donations help us serve more children.
Getting Started
Download the application from our website, complete it, and email to volunteer@casa4kidsinc.org. We’ll contact you to schedule an interview. From there: background check, training, swearing-in ceremony, and you’re matched with a child who needs you.
You can become a CASA Ambassador (help with outreach and events), volunteer at our fundraisers, provide occasional office support, or make a donation.