Court Appointed Special Advocates

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers represent the best interests of abused and neglected children in Juvenile Court.  A CASA is appointed by the Juvenile Court Judge to serve as Guardian Ad Litem for the child and to represent the child's best interests in court.

CASA volunteers have a strong desire to make a difference in a child’s life by giving them a voice in court.

A CASA must have sufficient, flexible time to attend training, gather information, write reports to the judge, and attend court hearings. Typically, a CASA volunteer devotes 5-10 hours per month and makes a commitment of 18 months.

CASA volunteers are appointed to one case at a time.  To ensure CASA provides consistent service to the child, they remain on the case until it is closed. 

Training

New volunteer training consists of 30 hours that address content information and skills necessary to accept and work on a case. Each new CASA will have an experienced CASA mentor during their first year. An additional 12 hours per year of continuing education is required.

CASA volunteers are additionally supported with on-going opportunities for training and a staff case manager work with volunteers as they plan and implement case strategy.

Other requirements

A background check is required. You must be 21 years of age and have a valid driver's license.

Child Advocacy Center (CAC)

Volunteers assist the State’s Attorney’s Office while they complete forensic interviews when abuse and neglect are reported. The center helps put abused children at ease during the interview process.  A CASA will sit with the family in a relaxed atmosphere in an attempt to make the already traumatizing event a little less stressful. 

Training for the Child Advocacy Center consists of 10 hours of training that address content information and skills necessary to work in the CAC.

A background check is required.

Volunteers must sign a confidentiality agreement and be sworn in by the local judge.

For more information on becoming an advocate or a Friend of CASA contact Debi Blocker at (630) 553-8660 or email dblocker@co.kendall.il.us