CASA Volunteers listen first. Then they act.
A CASA Volunteer is trained to represent the best interest of children who are abused or neglected and are active cases in the Juvenile Court System. CASA Volunteers are sworn in by the Presiding Juvenile Court Judge. As an Advocate, CASA Volunteers investigate the child’s circumstances, provides fact-based information, and makes recommendations to the Court while becoming a source of support for the child.
The Advocate’s ultimate goal is to move the child out of temporary placement, usually in the foster care system, into a safe and permanent home. This could mean returning to the parent’s care, adoption, the appointment of a legal guardian, or some other permanent living arrangement that satisfies the Court and fulfills the child’s needs.
CASA programs are independent from, but works closely with the Court, social workers, therapists, attorneys, care providers, and other professionals involved in a child’s case. CASA Volunteers work under the direct supervision of the CASA Director/Volunteer Coordinator to further the child’s welfare and to expedite the case through the system.
CASA of Mariposa County welcomes every individual passionate about making a difference in the life of a child. A Volunteer Advocate (a.k.a Court Appointed Special Advocate) is a consistent, caring adult for a child/youth involved in the court system. Volunteers get to know the child by talking with everyone in that child’s life: parents and relatives, foster parents, teachers, medical professionals, attorneys, social workers and others. They use the information they gather to inform judges and others of what the child needs and what will be the best permanent home for them.
It is because of this that children/youth who are appointed CASAs have shorter cases, better permanency outcomes, and significantly lower chances of reentering the court system. This important work is only made possible by every day people who decide to become a CASA Volunteer. To be an Advocate you must:
Our CASA volunteers are a diverse, passionate group of individuals making a difference in our community everyday. You do not have to be a lawyer or social worker to be a volunteer. We welcome people from all walks of life. We are simply looking for people who care about children and have common sense. As a volunteer, you will be thoroughly trained and well supported by professional staff to help you through each case. Want to find out how you can become a Volunteer Advocate? Call CASA of Mariposa County at (209) 742-4206.
Interested in helping children but not ready to commit to becoming a volunteer advocate? Learn about other volunteer opportunities.
Want to volunteer for CASA of Mariposa County? Fill out the form below to find out more!
We are a community based organization committed to advocating for children and youth in Mariposa County. Check out our website to learn more about the ways we are working in the community and how you can partner with us to make a difference!
