WHAT DOES A CASA DO?
LEARN
Learn about the child, the important people in their life, and other relevant information.
ENGAGE
Complete regularly scheduled visits with the child. Spend time building a positive relationship with them.
COLLABORATE
Work with others on the case to ensure the child's emotional, physical, mental, and educational needs are being met.
RECOMMEND
Speak on behalf of the child's best interests in court. Offer suggestions regarding the child's case until it is released by the court.
REPORT
Make recommendations to the court of what you have gathered about the child, and their case.
CASA
REQUIREMENTS
Becoming a CASA is no small commitment. Yet CASAs are one of our most valuable resources. A resource we invest in heavily. Before making the commitment, discover what it takes to be a successful CASA in Polk County.
VOLUNTEER HOURS
A typical CASA volunteers 12 hours per month on 1 to 2 cases.
BACKGROUND CHECKS & AGE
All CASA volunteers must be 21 years of age and able to pass a criminal background check prior to maintaining a caseload.
TRAINING EXPECTATIONS
CASAs complete an 8-week training period. Classes for the training occur once a week.
TIME REQUIREMENTS
Successful CASAs should plan to commit to at least two years, preferably until their assigned cases have closed.
FIND A CASA PARTNER
CASA volunteers are encouraged to work in pairs. Consider asking a friend, spouse, or family member to join you.
PARTY TO THE CASE
CASAs are “party to the case.” They receive confidential information regarding the child’s case and are held to the same confidentiality standards as others in the case, such as lawyers and social workers.
