How to Become a CASA Volunteer
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a specially trained community volunteer (21 years and older), appointed by a judge, to represent the best interests of abused, neglected, and/or abandoned children in court. CASA Volunteers independently investigate the child’s situation and make recommendations to the Berks County Dependency Judges as to what permanent placement would be best for that particular child and what services the child can benefit from whether those services are related to educational needs, social needs, mental health needs, physical health needs, or cultural needs.
As a CASA Volunteer, you are empowered by the courts to help ensure children find a safe, nurturing, and permanent home. You will not only bring positive change to the lives of these vulnerable children, but to their children and generations to come.
How do I get started?
- Attend one of our monthly information sessions which will present not only the mission and vision of the organization, but will also discuss both the roles and responsibilities of a CASA volunteer and the application process. Registration for Info Session
- Complete our CASA Volunteer Application which will be sent electronically to you following your participation at in informational session. Please note that we require you to attend an information session prior to being contacted for an interview.
- After you attend an information session and we review your application, we will get in touch with you to schedule an interview. This preliminary interview will provide you with another opportunity to discuss your questions and concerns while you decide if this is the right volunteer opportunity for you.
- Following the interview, you will be notified of your preliminary acceptance to the CASA pre-service training program. The pre-service training consists of approximately 30 hours of in-class training (including dependency court observation) during which you will receive the basic knowledge, skills, and tools to be an effective advocate. Next pre-service training class will begin on September 14, 2023.
