Become a CASA volunteer!
We hold our volunteers in the highest esteem; they are an invaluable asset to every facet of fulfilling CASA’s mission of advocacy for children. They provide passionate, extraordinary service without compromise for what is in a child’s best interest.
We hold our volunteers in the highest esteem; they are an invaluable asset to every facet of fulfilling CASA’s mission of advocacy for children. They provide passionate, extraordinary service without compromise for what is in a child’s best interest.
You can speak up for a child who's been abused or neglected
Imagine the experience of children who are removed from their homes because the people responsible for protecting them have not. As a CASA Volunteer You:
The volunteer works to move the child as quickly and effectively as possible through the system and into a safe, loving and permanent home. The CASA volunteer is often the only consistent adult presence in that child’s life. It is that simple, a qualified, caring adult can change everything! Who Can Volunteer? CASA volunteers come from every walk of life and share a commitment to improving children's lives, a willingness to learn and an open mind toward life experiences different from their own. No special education, experience or background is needed, just a big heart for children! Your Commitment As a CASA volunteer you commit to spending an average of 8-10 hours per month on one specific case for at least a year. You research the case, talk with everyone involved and build a trusting relationship with your child or family of children. You will prepare reports to the court based on what you believe is best for the child, helping the Judge make the most informed decision possible. The scheduling of your activities is flexible, and you will be paired with a staff professional who supports and guides you every step of the way. Training We will provide you with all the training and support you need to serve as an effective advocate. CASA training consists of 30 hours of class time and 3 hours of courtroom observation. You must complete all training before you will be assigned to a child. Classes are offered at a variety of times and days to suit anyone’s schedule. |
Requirements
You must be at least 21 years of age and be able to pass extensive reference, Child Protective Services, sex offender registry, and criminal background checks before becoming a CASA volunteer. You may not be a current foster parent or be in the process of adopting a child from Child Protective Services. If an attorney, you may not concurrently be appointed to any cases involving Child Protective Services. CASA of Chautauqua County’s Commitment to Equal Opportunity In order to provide the best quality advocacy for children in our community, we believe that we must be responsive to the needs of everyone who may provide, receive or be affected by our services. To that end, all policies, practices and recommendations are administered without discrimination on the basis of race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, age, gender, gender identity and gender expression, marital status, physical abilities or national origin. I'm Ready to Volunteer! 1. Download application here: Volunteer Application Complete and submit via mail to: Kathy Park, Executive Director 2 Academy St., Suite 5 Mayville, NY 14757 or email to: [email protected] 2. Once we receive your application, we will call you to schedule a pre-training Interview. |