May 2012 Training Announcement
Whether you’re looking to volunteer directly with the abused and neglected children we serve, help raise money to support our programs, or simply occupy some time on a weekday afternoon – we have a volunteer opportunity for you:
- CASA – the heart of Child Advocates’ mission and a shining example of ordinary individuals making an extraordinary impact in the lives of abused children.
- Friends of CASA – a membership-based group of volunteers who serve as a fundraising arm and volunteer base for our many special events.
- Special Events Volunteer – opportunities to participate in shorter-term / done-in-a-day volunteer roles. Contact us to find out about upcoming volunteer opportun
CASA Volunteers
CASA of Placer County receives referrals directly from the Court. When a volunteer is available, he or she reviews the case information and consults with the professionals involved with the child. Prior to each court hearing, the volunteer prepares a court report with his/her evaluations and recommendations for the child. The Juvenile Court Judge reads and considers the CASA report along with the social worker’s report prior to making a decision. To better serve the program, each volunteer receives 30 hours of expert, ongoing training in relevant skills.
CASA volunteers are unique in providing information not usually available to the Court. Because of the enormous number of cases filed in Juvenile Court and dwindling resources to adequately investigate cases, judges are often compelled to make decisions based on less than complete or objective data. A CASA’s objective, unbiased recommendation to support the best interest of the child is an invaluable aid to the judge.
We work carefully to match a CASA volunteer with a child to ensure that the child’s best interest is served.
Training for New Volunteer Advocates
Do you want to become a child advocate? A mentor? A finding family tree coordinator? Join us at our next orientation and training!
