On average, you can expect to spend 15-20 hours a month on a case. On top of that, all CASA volunteers must complete a 30 hour pre-service training. Advocates sometimes say that there is a greater amount of work in the beginning of the case, when they are conducting their initial research. While 15-20 hours a month is the average, the time commitment to a case varies depending upon the unique circumstances of the child and even the stage of the case (such as waiting for adoption to be final).

Continuity and trust are very important for these children, so we ask that you dedicate yourself to the case until it’s closed. That means about a year and a half on average.

As an advocate, you will have several responsibilities. You’ll need to:

• Gather Information: Review documents and records, interview the children, family members and professionals in their lives.
• Participate in Document Findings: Provide written reports at court hearings.
• Appear in Court: Advocate for the child’s best interests and provide testimony when necessary.
• Explain What’s Going On: Help the child understand the court proceedings or other activities happening in their lives.
• “Be the Glue”: Seek cooperative solutions among individuals and organizations involved in the child’s life. As one volunteer said: “Be the glue that connects the pieces in a complicated child welfare system.”
• Recommend Services: Ensure that the child and his or her family are receiving appropriate services. Advocate for those that are not immediately available. Bring concerns about the child’s health, education and mental health to the appropriate professionals.
• Monitor Case Plans and Court Orders: Check to see that plans are being followed and mandated review hearings are being held.
• Keep the Court Informed: Update the court on developments with agencies and family members. Ensure that those responsible file appropriate motions on behalf of the child so the court knows about any changes in the child’s situation.

You don’t have to be a lawyer or a social worker to be a volunteer. We welcome everyone who is committed to advocacy for children to apply. At CASA of Maricopa County, we’re looking for people who care about children.

No special background or education is required to become a CASA volunteer. We encourage people from all professions, cultures and ethnic and educational backgrounds to apply. Once you’ve been accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of neglected children.

You must be:

• At least 21 years old
• Able to speak, read and write English
• Willing to complete necessary background checks, take a polygraph test, provide references and participate in a one-on-one interview
• Able to complete a minimum of 30 hours of pre-service training
• Available for court appearances, with advance notice
• Willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed

Continuity and trust are very important for these children, so we ask that you dedicate yourself to the case until it’s closed. That means about a year and a half on average.

You can rest easy knowing that you will be supported every step of the way. As a CASA volunteer, you will have opportunities for continuing education and have access to online resources provided by the National CASA Association and CASA of Arizona. These include a resource library, a national Facebook community and a national conference.

We want you to feel comfortable in the courtroom and with your child. CASA of Maricopa County’s experienced staff, pre-service training program and continued support system are in place to ensure you always have an answer to your question and know the best way to handle every situation.