CASA volunteers are everyday people – teachers, business people, retirees, stay-at-home moms, and grandparents – who are committed to making a difference for children who might otherwise slip through the cracks in an overburdened foster care system. They are appointed by judges to guide one child or one set of siblings through the system to safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. CASA volunteers research case records and speak to each person involved in a child’s life, including family members, teachers, doctors, lawyers, and social workers. They monitor the progress of the child and family throughout the case and advocate for the child’s current and future needs in court in school, and in agency meetings. Their independent evaluations allow the court to make better informed decisions.
Because CASA volunteers serve on one case at a time, they truly get to know the child and can give each case the sustained, personal attention it deserves.
We invite you to join our family of volunteers and make a difference in a child’s life – and your own.
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Qualifications
Candidates for the role of Court Appointed Special Advocate with CASA of the High Plains must:
- Be willing to work within the guidelines, policies, procedures and standards of CASA of the High Plains, Texas CASA and National CASA Association
- Have the ability to remain objective
- Be proficient in English, and possess good oral and written communication skills
- Have conviction for the importance of advocating for the best interest of the children-at-risk
- Have the time, interest and energy for the job
- Have the ability to stand up for convictions
- Exhibit professionalism in behavior and appearance, demonstrate good interpersonal communication skills, and work as part of a team
- Be respectful of and sensitive toward cultural and ethnic diversities
Requirements
- Must be 21 years of age
- Must have basic computer skills. Must also have a personal, password protected electronic device in order to view/store case file and access secured email
- Have access to reliable transportation
- Complete application and interview process, including criminal and CPS background checks, and provide 3 references unrelated to the candidate. CASA of the High Plains reserves the right to determine whether or not the candidate would be a good fit for the role of Court Appointed Special Advocate
- Complete 30 hours of preservice training and be sworn in before the Judge
- Sign confidentiality agreement and commit to serving a minimum of one year
- Complete 12 hours of ongoing training every year