Qualities of a Volunteer Advocate

Qualities:

• Able to make a minimum of an 18 month commitment to the program and child(ren)
• Understand and follow the CASA confidentiality policy
• Respect and relate to people from various backgrounds in a variety of settings
• Communicate effectively both orally and in writing
• Gather and accurately record factual information
• Meet report deadlines and requirements
• Be objective, open-minded and flexible
• Act with confidence and courage in advocating for your CASA child(ren)
• Accept supervision and seek feedback from CASA case supervisors
• Maintain professional relationships with all community service providers
• Provide one's own transportation
• Pass a volunteer screening consisting of a national criminal record check, DMV record check, Central Registry check and three (3) letters of recommendation.

Responsibilities:

• Maintain consistent monthly contact with CASA child(ren)
• Maintain consistent monthly (or more often as necessary) contact with CASA case supervisor
• Submit volunteer time sheet quarterly to CASA case supervisor
• Keep appropriate case notes
• Complete case reports in a timely manner
• Complete 12 hours of continuing education yearly

The CASA Advocate does not engage in the following activities:

• Taking a child to the home of the advocate
• Giving legal advice or therapeutic counseling
• Making placement arrangements
• Giving large amounts of money or expensive gifts to the child or the family