Primary Duties
Our Mission is to recruit and train volunteers who speak in court for the safety and well-being of abused and neglected children.
A Court Appointed Special Advocate, CASA, is a trained volunteer, sworn in as an Officer of the Court and appointed to a specific case by a Judge. A CASA is the voice for abused and neglected children who are in foster care. Working in conjunction with case professionals and attorneys, a CASA advocates for the best interest of a child. A CASA meets with the child at least monthly and attends monthly team meetings with case professionals, parents and/or foster parents. A CASA will meet with teachers, daycare providers, medical and mental health providers, and other service providers as needed. At least every six months, a CASA will write a court report with recommendations to the court. A CASA will also attend periodic court hearings.
Minimum Requirements:
- Able to commit to a minimum of 2 years.
- Willing to donate 8 to 10 hours per month.
- Able to commit to training hours as noted above.
- Attend court hearings or arrange for supervisor or peer coordinator attendance.
- Able to maintain objectivity and professionalism in dealing with the child and all other parties involved.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality.
- Possess excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- Possess a working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Email.
- Must have reliable transportation.
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must pass a background check, have a valid driver’s license/identification, valid auto insurance (if applicable), valid phone number, and have a permanent address.
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Essential Volunteer Duties:
- Meet with the child on a consistent basis, a minimum of one time per month.
- Attend meetings with case professionals, parents and/or foster parents.
- Establish and maintain contact with schools, therapists, medical professionals, and other professionals involved in the child’s life.
- Monitor court ordered services to ensure effectiveness, and advocate for additional services as needed.
- Document observations, facts and circumstances of the child’s situation in a written court report including recommendations for placement, services, and permanency.
- Maintain complete records of contacts, hours, and mileage.
- Attend court hearings.
Training:
- Complete 30 hours of pre-service training and 2 hours of court observation.
- Complete 12 hours of continuing education training annually.
How to Apply
Please call our office 402-371-9599; email us at casa@casaofne.onmicrosoft.com; message on FB: https://www.facebook.com/casaofnortheastnebraska/
You can also fill out this form at: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSek8-DOGjhZpBI6UDQU_jqZ408mXeXOq0d5BybmqgAytXEJFg/viewform