Activity 1.3 (Part 1): The Four Roles of the CASA Volunteer

[Casa Volunteer Coordinator]

Four Core Functions of a CASA Volunteer

 

Orientation

 

Across the nation, there are about 70, 000 CASA/GAL Volunteers. In general, each volunteer has four roles. If you were to shadow an active volunteer and take a sanpshot of some of their primary responsibliites, you would most likely see them engaged in these activies.

[Casa Volunteer Coordinator]

Investigation:

 

You carry out an objective examination of the situation, including relevant history, environment, relationships, and needs of the child.

[Casa Volunteer Coordinator]

 

Facilitation:

 

You identify resources and services for the child and facilitate a collaborative relationship between all parties involved in the case, helping to create a situation in which the child's needs can be met.

 

[Casa Volunteer Coordinator]

 

Monitoring:

 

You keep track of whether the orders of the court and the plans of the child protective services agency are carried out, and you report the the court or collaborate with child protective services agency when any of the parties do not follow those orders and plans.

[Casa Volunteer Coordinator]

 

Advocacy:

 

You speak up for the child by making recommendations regarding the child's best interests in a written court report.