Become a CASA Volunteer
Join CASA of the Bluegrass as a volunteer and make a difference in the life of a child experiencing abuse or neglect. No special skills are needed—just a love for kids and a passion for advocacy. With training, support, and time, you can be the voice that changes a child’s future.
Call us at (859) 936-3510 or email director@casaofthebluegrass.org to learn more
What is a CASA Volunteer?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) with CASA of the Bluegrass is a compassionate, dedicated community member who stands up for children involved in the family court system. CASA volunteers (also referred to as advocates) serve as a consistent, caring presence for children who have experienced abuse or neglect, ensuring their voices are heard during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. Specially trained and sworn in by a family court judge, CASAs advocate for each child’s best interests as they navigate the foster care and judicial systems.
CASA volunteers wear many hats. They listen, gather information, collaborate with care teams, and advocate for services that support a child’s safety, stability, and well-being. By building a trusting relationship with the child, CASAs gain valuable insight into their unique needs, help explain what is happening in their case, and provide informed recommendations to the court.
Appointed by family court judges and supported by a professional staff, CASA of the Bluegrass volunteers receive thorough training and ongoing guidance to ensure they are prepared and supported every step of the way. If you have the heart to make a meaningful difference in the life of a child in foster care, CASA of the Bluegrass invites you to join this vital mission.
Who Can Volunteer?
CASA of the Bluegrass volunteers come from all walks of life, and no specific professional experience is required. What matters most is a heart for children, a commitment to advocacy, a willingness to learn, and the time to serve. To become a CASA volunteer, you must be at least 21 years old and able to pass a background check. If you have questions or would like to learn more, our team is always happy to help.
Steps to Become a CASA Volunteer
Step 1: Apply
Start by submitting an application to CASA of the Bluegrass. After your application is reviewed, a member of our team will reach out to schedule an interview and talk more about the program and your interest in volunteering.
Step 2: Complete a Background Check
To protect the safety and well-being of the children we serve, all CASA volunteers must complete a comprehensive background check. Certain criminal offenses may disqualify applicants, as outlined during the application process.
Step 3: Complete CASA Training
Volunteers participate in a 30-hour training program designed to prepare you for the role of a CASA. Training covers topics such as child abuse and neglect, juvenile law and court processes, trauma-informed advocacy, and effective advocacy skills, giving you the tools to confidently support children in foster care.
Step 4: Take the Oath
After completing training, you will be sworn in by a family court judge and officially become a CASA volunteer. Once sworn in, you’ll be assigned to a child’s case and begin making a meaningful, lasting difference in their life.
FAQ About Volunteering
Can I Volunteer If I Work Full-Time?
Absolutely! Many CASA advocated work full-time. Some flexibility is needed to attend court hearings and meetings, but our staff works with you to help make volunteering manageable alongside your schedule.
What Does Training Involve?
CASA training is comprehensive and designed to prepare you for success as an advocate. Training includes:
- Eight sessions, approximately three hours each, typically held on weekday evenings
- Topics such as juvenile law, trauma and brain development, poverty, culture, education, medical needs, and effective advocacy
After training, CASA staff provide ongoing guidance and support so you feel confident and supported in your role.
Can I Choose the Child I Work With?
While children are appointed to CASA by the court, we make every effort to consider volunteer preferences when making case assignments. Flexibility is important as we work to meet the needs of the children we serve. Before a case is assigned, CASA staff review the details with the volunteer to ensure there is a good fit and that the volunteer feels connected to the child and able to commit to the case through permanency.
How Many Children Will I Advocate For?
Most CASA volunteers advocate for one to two children at a time. In cases involving sibling groups, volunteers may work as a team to ensure each child receives the attention and advocacy they deserve.
Where Are the Children Located?
Children served by CASA have court involvement within our service area. Due to foster care placement availability, some children may live in surrounding communities.
Make a Difference Today
Volunteering with CASA is a life-changing experience, for both the children you serve and for you. By offering stability, advocacy, and a trusted voice, you play a vital role in helping a child move toward a safer, brighter future.
Ready to become a CASA?
Not Quite Ready for Advocacy Work?
The mission of CASA of the Bluegrass can be supported in many meaningful ways. Interested in volunteering, but not ready to serve as an Advocate or Board member? A Friend of CASA is a great option for those who want to support the program behind the scenes. Friends of CASA assist at events, help in the office, prepare items and treats for the children we serve, and lend a hand wherever support is needed.
CASA of the Bluegrass
PO Box 45 Danville, KY 40423 US
CASA of the Bluegrass does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, disability, or age.
Copyright © 2020 CASA of the Bluegrass - All Rights Reserved.
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