CASA of Forsyth County, Inc.

WHAT IS A CASA?

A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer that is appointed by a judge to speak up for the best interests of an abused or neglected child who is involved in a juvenile court proceeding.

WHAT DOES A CASA DO?

CASA volunteers serve as the eyes and ears of the court. They interview anyone who may be able to shed light on a child's needs, including the child, family members, therapists, and social workers. Based on this assessment, the CASA then appears in court and makes recommendations to the judge about what is in the child's best interest. The CASA remains involved in the case until the child achieves permanency - the child is placed in a safe, stable, permanent home.

WHY HAVE CASA PROGRAMS?

CASA programs provide an innovative approach to an urgent crisis. These programs screen, train, and support volunteers to provide individualized advocacy for especially vulnerable children in the child welfare system. The CASA volunteer provides an independent source of information for the judge.

HOW MUCH TIME DOES IT REQUIRE TO BE A CASA?

Each case is different. A CASA volunteer usually spends about 10-15 hours conducting research and interviews prior to the first court appearance. Once initiated into the system, volunteers work about 10 hours per month on each case.