CASA of North Texas 309 S. Commerce Street Gainesville, Texas 76240 Ph. 940-665-2244
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What are the qualifications of a CASA Volunteer?
- At least 21 years of age
- Completion of Volunteer Advocate Application
- Completion of Personal Interview with program staff
- Successful completion of Criminal Background Check
- Successful completion of Child Abuse Background Check
- Provide four references
- Successful completion of 30 hours of pre-service training
provided by CASA
What are the responsibilities of a CASA Volunteer?
- Completion of 12 or more continuing education hours of training
annually
- Respect of child's inherent right to grow up with dignity in a safe
environment that meets the child's best interests
- Ensure that the child's best interests are represented at every
stage of a case
- Report any new incidents of child abuse/neglect to the casework
supervisor and appropriate authorities
- Review records and interview appropriate parties involved in the
assigned case, including the child, to determine if a permanent
plan has been created for the child and whether appropriate
services are being provided to the child and family.
- Facilitate prompt, thorough reviews of the case
- Attend court hearings, staffings, and meetings which pertain to the
child
- Maintain complete records and documentation about the case,
including appointments, interviews, and information gathered
about the child
- Submit recommendations concerning the case to the court in a
written report
- Maintain contact with CASA casework supervisor and other parties
involved in the case, including the child, according to the Texas
CASA minimum standards of the working a case
- Maintain complete confidentiality regarding information about the
case
- Exhibit professionalism in behavior and appearance following the
CASA standards of conduct
- Is not related to any parties involved in a case assigned to him/her
or employed in a position and/or agency that might result in a
conflict of interest
- Does not provide direct services to any parties that could lead to a
conflict of interest or potential liability, or cause a child or family to
become dependent on the CASA volunteer for services that
should be provided other agencies or organizations
- Adhere to Texas CASA minimum standards of working a case
What are the time committments of a CASA Volunteer?
- Once assigned to a case, a CASA volunteer makes a commitment
to the case for at least one year and preferably until a permanent
placement is found for the child.