CASA volunteers are selected on the basis of their objectivity, competence, and commitment. Once accepted, volunteers receive the tools they need to serve as a CASA, including in-depth training and ongoing monthly support sessions. They learn about courtroom procedure, the tribal court system, the social services system, how to work with families in crisis and the special needs of children who have been abused or neglected. The CASA program provides support and assistance on an on-going basis. Although each case is different, a CASA usually spends about 10 hours doing research and talking to persons involved in the case prior to a court appearance.
More complicated cases take longer.
Once initiated into the system, volunteers generally work about 10-15 hours a month. With the exception of court appearances, CASA volunteers have considerable flexibility in scheduling interviews and other appointments. Consequently, you can serve as a CASA even if you have a full time job. Tribal Court CASA programs provide an opportunity for individual community members to demonstrate that they truly believe that the children are their community's most precious resource. CASA volunteers understand the work may be challenging, but it is also gratifying.