Volunteer Commitment

In the work of child advocacy, we may spend half a day negotiating to see that a child's special needs are met. We may make 14 phone calls in search of an aunt who has not been heard from in six years. Or we may talk to a parent who has made no progress with a rehab program. We may become frustrated and angry and overwhelmed. But we do not stop. We do not give up. This advocacy in all of its persistence, diligence and commitment is what it takes for children to have a chance at a safe, permanent nurturing home.

People who give their time to CASA advocacy come from many different places. Some have years of education and professional experience working for children and families. Some have themselves grown up in the foster care system and felt the sorrow of having to move from home to home. But most are ordinary people who flourished in a warm and loving family, never once imagining that there were children who did not have caring parents.

So what does it take to become a CASA volunteer? The skills needed for this volunteer job include: communication, problem solving and listening skills, combined with common sense and long term (eighteen month minimum) commitment. You must be at least 21 years of age, pass a thorough background check and screening process. Upon completion of a 42 hour training course become sworn officers of the court. Volunteers average about 12 hours of service per month. We also ask that volunteers dedicate themselves to a case until it is closed. The average case lasts about a year and a half. CASA of Tulare County provides ongoing training and support for every volunteer. Each volunteer is assigned a case supervisor who serves as a resource for the volunteer every step of the way.

 

Advocate Duties

Establish a caring relationship with your child through weekly age appropriate activities.

Gather essential information about the child and his world through conversations, observations and written information.

Ensure that child’s needs are being met, necessary services are being provided, and court orders are being followed.

Prepare a written report for the court and attend court hearings.