Volunteer Job Description

Basic Function: A CASA Volunteer is a trained community volunteer appointed by the Juvenile Court Judge to speak for the best interests of an abused an/or neglected child. A CASA works as an official part of the judicial proceedings, working alongside attorneys and social workers.

Supervision: Direct supervision and guidance is provided by the Case Manager of Volunteer Advocates who is supervised by the Director of Programs. Both persons are supervised by the Executive Director. The Case Manager will be available to volunteers to discuss case plans, progress, or problems, as well as provide other information needed to fulfill his/her role as a CASA.

Major Duties and Responsibilities:

• Complete an extensive, independent review of each case:
  • Meet face-to-face with the child(ren) at least twice a month
  • Speak with the child and relevant adults (parent, family members, school officials, doctors, and others involved in the child’s life who might have facts about the case)
  • Report any new incidents of child abuse or neglect to the Case Manager and/or Child Protective Services
  • Ensure that the child’s best interests are represented at every stage of the case
• Report findings to the Court by submitting formal reports to the Judge at every scheduled hearing/review:
  • Provide a written report containing factual information to the Case Manager no later than Monday (12noon) before the hearing/review
• Monitor the case following a court hearing or decision designated by the Court:
  • Ensure that the court-ordered services are provided to the child and family
  • Ensure that the Court and Child Welfare System are moving ahead to secure a safe, permanent home for the child
• Consult weekly with the Case Manager concerning the assigned case:
  • Develop a CASA case plan
  • Review progress and reports
  • Advise the Case Manager of hearings/reviews you are unable to attend
• Submit the CASA Case Activity Log to the Case Manager:
  • Provide an activity log no later than the 5th of each month

Training/Support Plan:

• CASA volunteers are required to attend 30 hours of pre-service training
• CASA volunteers are required to attend 12 hours of in-service training annually
• CASA volunteers will be sworn as a court appointee by the Juvenile Court Judge
• CASA volunteers receive direct supervision and guidance from program staff
• CASA volunteers are encouraged to call the Case Manager at any time with any questions/concerns

Time Commitment:

• Volunteers are required to make a 12 month minimum commitment to Madison County CASA
• Volunteers are expected to be available for case assignment and to accept cases immediately upon completion of pre-service training
• CASA volunteers, on average, spend 10-15 hours a month on each case
• CASA volunteers are not mandated to appear in court for hearing pertaining to their case(s).

Necessary Knowledge and Skills:

• Ability to keep all court information confidential
• Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Successfully complete the application process that include a personal interview, reference checks, and a criminal background investigation
• Ability to respect and relate to people from various backgrounds
• Ability to provide own transportation
• A basic understanding of child development and family relationships
• Does not require specific educational training beyond a high school diploma or GED
• Must be 21 years of age

Benefits: Although we cannot provide you with monetary rewards, there are many benefits to volunteering as a CASA. These include the opportunity to:

• Make a difference in the life and future of a child who has been a victim of abuse and/or neglect
• Help a child/children find permanency in a safe, loving home
• Assist judges in obtaining a clear picture of the child’s life and needs
• Gain an understanding Madison County Juvenile Court System, legal proceedings, and social service agencies
• Utilize your past experience/skills
• Form friendships with like-minded people in your community