A Court Appointed Special Advocate, CASA, is a trained volunteer, sworn in as an Officer of the Court and appointed to a specific juvenile court case by a Judge. A CASA is the voice for abused and neglected children who are living in foster care. Working in conjunction with case professionals and attorneys, a CASA advocates for the best interest of a child. A CASA meets with the child at least monthly and attends monthly team meetings with case professionals, parents and/or foster parents. A CASA will meet with teachers, daycare providers, medical and mental health providers, and other service providers as needed. At least every six months, a CASA will write a court report with recommendations to the court. A CASA will also attend periodic court hearings.
A CASA receives 30 hours of training and attends 2 hours of court observation. CASA training is scheduled over a five week period and includes 3 hours of online training and 3 hours of in-person training each week. The in-person session is scheduled twice a week providing flexibility to choose either a daytime or an evening class. A CASA is also required to attend 12 hours of on-going training annually. On-going training opportunities are provided throughout the year by CASA for Douglas County, and by partner agencies and non-profit organizations. On-going training can also be acquired through online presentations and readings.