How CASA Volunteers Complement Social Workers and Attorneys

In the complex landscape of child welfare, CASA volunteers play a crucial role in advocating for the best interests of children in foster care. While CASA volunteers do not replace social workers or attorneys, they provide an added layer of support focused solely on the child's needs.

The Role of CASA Volunteers

CASA, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are specially trained to represent a child's voice in court. They work alongside social workers and attorneys, complementing their efforts by providing unique insights from spending time directly with the child, their family, and their environment. This hands-on approach empowers CASA volunteers to offer well-rounded recommendations to the court about the child's best interests.

Collaboration with Other Professionals

While attorneys and social workers handle the legal and welfare aspects, CASA volunteers focus on the child's emotional and physical needs. They complement the work of social workers by providing more detailed observations that might not surface in the standard casework interactions. For attorneys, the insights and reports provided by CASA volunteers can be invaluable for legal proceedings.

How CASA Works

CASA volunteers are trained to understand the judicial process and advocate effectively for the child. They gather information from teachers, doctors, and family members to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the child’s situation, allowing them to make informed recommendations during court hearings. Yes, CASA volunteers do go to court with the child, offering consistent support and advocacy throughout the legal process.

Get Involved with CASA

If you’re interested in learning more about how CASA volunteers make a difference, or if you're considering becoming a volunteer yourself, we invite you to explore more about what we do at CASA of the 16th JDC. Learn how you can be a part of this rewarding journey to support children in need.