While they will establish a relationship with the child, the CASA volunteers'' role is not to become a Big Brother or Sister to the child. CASA volunteers must be able to talk to a wide variety of people from healthcare professionals to school officials to an angry parent. CASA volunteers present written reports to the court, sometimes speaking in the courtroom on behalf of the child's best interests. CASA programs provide in-depth training on issues of the court process, child development, abuse and neglect, cultural competency, advocacy and interviewing techniques, HIV and other public health topics, etc. You will hear from judges, attorneys, social workers and other professionals in the field.
Programs also offer in-service training on many subjects.
Before volunteers step into the courtroom or begin a case, they are thoroughly trained and prepared. CASA staff offers ongoing training and is available for supervision and support at all times. These high standards have been established to ensure that a high quality of child advocacy is maintained. The CASA volunteer provides the court with additional, pertinent information which helps the judge make important decisions that impact the child.