Become A C.A.S.A
Thank you for your interest in discovering how you can make a lasting impact on the life of a child in foster care or a youth involved in the juvenile justice system.
(CASA) Court Appointed Special Advocates are everyday heroes who choose to provide the consistency and stability that abused or neglected children need as they navigate the court system. In Winnebago County, the CASA is appointed as guardian ad litem (GAL) for the child they represent.
The ultimate goal is to find a safe, permanent home for every child. We are looking to recruit over 100 new volunteers to help us fill the need in Winnebago County so that every child has a CASA on their side.
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CASAs are expected to attend all court hearings on their cases, although each volunteer is matched with a Winnebago County CASA staff member who can stand in court on behalf of the CASA if needed.
Necessary Knowledge, Skills, and Requirements:
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 maintain objectivity and to exhibit good common sense
Willingness to submit to background checks
Completion of education resulting in either a high school diploma or GED
Must be 21 years of age
Advocates are to conduct themselves in an ethical manner which upholds the credibility and dignity of the CASA mission by conducting all business in an honest, fair, professional, and humane manner. Advocates shall not at any time bring discredit to the CASA program.
Time Commitment:
Volunteers are required to make an 18 to 24 month commitment to the program and spend, on average, approximately 10 hours per month on a case. Volunteers are expected to be available for case assignment upon completion of all training requirements and after being sworn in by the Juvenile Court Judge, unless other arrangements have been made.
How to become a
Court Appointed Special Advocate