It is important to remember that CASA volunteers do not represent a child's wishes in Court. Rather, they speak on behalf of the child's best interests . CASA volunteers come from all walks of life, with a variety of professional, educational, and ethnic backgrounds. In 1998, there were 47,000 CASA volunteers nationally. Local programs vary in the number of volunteers they utilize.
CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens.
No special or legal background is required. Volunteers are screened closely for objectivity, competence, and commitment. CASA volunteers undergo a thorough training course conducted by the local CASA program. Training requirements vary from program to program, but an average course is approximately 24 hours. CASA volunteers also learn effective advocacy techniques and are educated about specific topics ranging from seminars on child sexual abuse to discussion on early childhood development and adolescent behavior.