Volunteer Role

Pre-Service Training Options

How to Volunteer

Speak Up for a Child

ad·vo·cate  \’ad-və-kət, -kāt\  noun  1: one that pleads the cause of another; specifically : one that pleads the cause of another before a tribunal or judicial court   2: one that defends or maintains a cause or proposal   3: one that supports or promotes the interests of another.

Source: Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, © 2005 by Merriam-Webster, Inc.

The children with whom CASA works are victims of child abuse and neglect. Many of them are in foster care. They need a “voice in court” in order to find a safe, permanent home quickly whether that means returning to a parent or being adopted. The CASA/GAL volunteer provides that voice, sharing with the court both what the child wants and a recommendation about what is in that child’s best interest. It is valuable work that requires the commitment of your time, your energy, and your heart.

We Need You!

It matters to children when someone stands up for them in court. This is especially true in dependent neglect trials when parents are not necessarily a source of stability or support for their children. Abused and neglected children in Montana need caring and committed adults who are trained to represent their best interests.

CASA volunteers receive thirty hours of initial training, plus twelve additional hours a year in monthly trainings. Volunteers also have ongoing, one-on-one supervision to assist with the technical steps of helping these children. Every volunteer is trained in the special needs of abused and neglected children, courtroom procedures, social services and the Indian Child Welfare Act (ICWA).

A CASA volunteer is:

• An individual who has been screened and trained by CASA - Advocates for Kids and appointed by the court to advocate for children who come into the court system primarily as a result of alleged abuse or neglect.
• An individual who respects a child's inherent right to grow up with dignity in a safe environment that meets that child's best interests.
• An individual who assures that the child's best interests are represented in the court at every stage of the case.

How Do I Become a Volunteer?

• Contact the Helena CASA office at (406) 457-0797 or pam-casa@qwestoffice.net
• Complete a written application
• Provide four personal/professional references
• Complete a criminal background check
• Participate in a personal interview
• Complete 30 hours of required training
• Be sworn in as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) before the 1st Judical District Court

For more information, see Volunteer Role.