Every CASA volunteer plays a vital role in a foster child’s life.

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What is the role of a CASA volunteer?

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A powerful voice in a child’s
life ©

A CASA volunteer is a trained community volunteer appointed by a Family Court Judge to speak for the best interests of an abused and/or neglected child. A CASA works as an official part of the judicial proceedings, working alongside attorneys and social workers, making recommendations regarding services, placement, visitation, reunification, and permanency.

By handling only one to two cases at a time, the CASA has the time to thoroughly explore the history and circumstances of each assigned case. Volunteers get to know the child by talking with everyone in that child’s life: parents and relatives, foster parents, teachers, medical professionals, attorneys, social workers, and others. They use the information they gather to inform the judge and others of the child’s needs and what the best permanent home would be.

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What are the requirements for becoming a CASA volunteer?

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  • Be at least 21 years old

  • Be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references, and participate in an interview prior to being accepted into the program

  • Complete a minimum of 30 hours of training before accepting their first case

  • Be available for court appearances, with advance notice

  • Be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed (a year and a half, on average)

The National CASA/GAL Association requires that CASA volunteers must…

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Who is qualified to be a CASA volunteer?

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You don’t need a special degree or professional background—just a big heart and a commitment to making a difference. We welcome volunteers from all walks of life, cultures, and professions because every child deserves an advocate who cares. If you have strong communication skills, common sense, empathy, and an open mind, you could be the voice a child in foster care needs. No special expertise—just the passion to help. Ready to change a life? Apply today!

Someone just like you!

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What duties must be performed by CASA volunteers?

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CASA volunteers typically take on one or two cases at a time. To ensure they are acting in the child’s best interest and working towards their goal of finding a safe and permanent home, CASA volunteers must…

  • Visit the child regularly

  • Interview relevant parties (teachers, doctors, family members, etc.)

  • Monitor the child’s home environment

  • Research their case and review court records

  • File reports

  • Participate in treatment planning conferences

  • Identify and advocate for services for the child

  • Attend court hearings (this may include providing testimony when necessary)

  • Help ensure that the court’s orders are being followed

  • Help the child understand the court proceedings and decisions

  • Stay engaged until the child is in a safe, permanent home

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What training & support do volunteers receive?

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  • Initial Training: CASA volunteers are required to complete thirty (30) hours of initial training. Volunteers also have the opportunity to observe court proceedings to become familiar with the system before handling cases and testifying.

  • Continuing Education: All volunteers receive ongoing training through in-service seminars and learning opportunities to help volunteers through the challenges of child advocacy. Volunteers must complete a minimum of twelve (12) hours of continuing education per year.

  • Supervision: Per Kentucky law, CASA limits thirty (30) volunteers to each staff member. Advocate Coordinators maintain contact with volunteers, share information and resources, review the volunteer’s court reports, participate in home visits, attend court with CASA volunteers, ensure compliance with policies, and provide other forms of support.

We want you to feel confident & prepared!

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How do I apply?

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  1. First, download and complete the application. Once completed, send the forms to kelsie@casabythelakes.org along with a scanned copy of your license.

  2. CASA by the Lakes staff will schedule an interview with you.

  3. Begin your 30 hours of training.

Three simple steps!

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Have questions or want to learn more about how you can help? We’d love to hear from you!

Fill out the contact form below, and a member of our team will get back to you as soon as possible. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or just need more information, we’re here to help. Reach out today!