CASA of Branch County

Frequently Asked Questions:

What is the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program?

CASA of Branch County is made up of one program coordinator and trained volunteer advocates. Since 2008, the program has worked with the court to help make sure the needs, safety, and well-being of children involved in abuse and neglect cases are considered and that judges have important information to help make decisions.

What is a CASA volunteer and what is the volunteer’s role?

A CASA volunteer is a trained community member appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child involved in an abuse or neglect case. The volunteer learns about the child’s situation, shares information with the court, and stays involved until the case ends and a safe, permanent home is reached.

What are the requirements to becoming a CASA volunteer?

CASA volunteers must be at least 21 years old, complete an application and interview, pass required background checks, complete CASA training, and commit to staying involved for the length of the child’s case.

Does a CASA volunteer need to have any special training or educational background?

No. CASA of Branch County provides the necessary training to become an advocate volunteer.

What commitment does a CASA volunteer make?

CASA volunteers agree to stay involved until the child’s case ends, which usually takes about 12–15 months. They also agree to meet with the child regularly, keep case information private, and follow CASA of Branch County policies and procedures.

How much time does a CASA volunteer spend each month?

After training, volunteers can plan their CASA work around their schedule and the schedules of the child and caregivers. Volunteers should expect to spend at least two hours each week visiting the child and working on the case.

What kind of relationship does a CASA volunteer have with the child?

CASA volunteers provide children with trust, support, and advocacy during a difficult time. They help children understand what is happening in their case, explain the roles of the people involved, and encourage them to share their thoughts, wishes, and hopes.

How many cases does a CASA volunteer have at one time?

CASA volunteers are asked to take only one case at a time. This allows them to focus their time and attention on the child or children involved in that case.

How does a CASA volunteer learn about a case?

CASA volunteers talk with the child and people involved in the child’s life, such as parents, caregivers, family members, caseworkers, school staff, attorneys, and health care providers. Because they are appointed by the court, volunteers also have access to school, medical, and caseworker records.

What support do CASA volunteers receive?

CASA volunteers receive support from the CASA program coordinator throughout the case. The coordinator attends court, helps volunteers prepare reports, answers questions, and provides advice and guidance when needed.

What if I can’t become a CASA volunteer but still want to help?

There are other ways to help CASA of Branch County, including working with another volunteer to share the workload, helping with post-termination or pre-adoption needs, assisting with special events, or simply sharing information about CASA with others in the community.

How can I learn more about becoming a CASA of Branch County volunteer?

Contact:

Ashley Ford, Branch County Program Coordinator
CASA of Branch County
31 Division St.
Coldwater, MI 49036

By Phone:
517-279-6404

By email:
aford@branchcounty.gov

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