Volunteer
MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR MICHIGAN CHILDREN
What is a CASA Volunteer?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate is a person who is a positive influence, a consistent caring adult, a witness of the facts, a specially trained and sworn in representative, a friend with a large heart, and most importantly a person who can change an abused or neglected child’s life. CASA volunteers can wear many hats to be the advocate of a child in the family court system. CASAs build a relationship with the child to understand and advocate for the best interest of the child, whether it is recommending services, expressing the child’s unique situation in court or explaining what is happening to the child.
CASAs are appointed by a family court judge to be the voice of that child in court. CASAs are supported by a professional team and go through specialized training. If you have room in your heart to change the life of an abused or neglected child we would love to have you become part of Michigan CASA.
VIDEO: The Role of a CASA Volunteer
Steps to Becoming a CASA Volunteer
1
Look to See Which Local CASA Programs are in your Area
Check out our Local Programs page, to choose the location most convenient to you. We are currently located in 30 different counties around Michigan.
2
Contact your Local CASA Program
Submit an application to your local CASA program. You will be personally contacted to set a convenient time to interview
3
Complete a Background Check
CASA volunteers undergo a thorough background check to ensure that our children are in good hands. Candidates with certain criminal offenses are ineligible but this is clearly stated on the application form.
4
Complete CASA Training
Volunteers must complete a training of 30 hours. This comprehensive, specialized training equips our volunteers with knowledge of child abuse, juvenile law, and court structure. CASA training prepares you to be a strong advocate for our children.
5
Take your Oath Before a Judge
Congratulations! You’ve become a sworn CASA volunteer. Now you are ready to be appointed to a child who desperately needs your help.
