Volunteer Your Time to Change Children’s Lives.
No special background or education is required to become a CASA Volunteer. We encourage people from all cultures and professions, and of all ethnic and educational backgrounds. Once accepted into the program, you will receive all necessary training in courtroom procedures, social services, the juvenile justice system and the special needs of abused and neglected children.
Requirements include:
- Be 21 years old
- Be willing to complete necessary background checks, provide references and participate in an interview
- Be willing and able to commit 18-24 months to your case
- Attend a CASA 101 session
- Complete a minimum of 30 hours of pre-service training
- Be available for court appearances, with advance notice
- Be willing to commit to the CASA program until your first case is closed
Inquire About Volunteering Today
What a CASA Does
Volunteering in Denver as a CASA means you get to know the child and talk with everyone in that child’s life—parents, relatives, foster parents, teachers, medical professionals, attorneys, social workers, and others. Using the information gathered, CASA Volunteers inform the judges in charge of the case and others of what the child needs. A Volunteer:
- Gathers information: Conducts thorough research through document and record review and interviews.
- Provides document findings: Writes written reports for the Denver court system.
- Appears in court: Advocates for the child’s best interests, providing testimony if necessary.
- Explains what is going on: Helps the child understand the court proceedings.
- Acts as “the glue”: Seeks cooperative solutions among individuals and Colorado-based organizations involved in the children’s lives.
- Recommends services: Ensures that the children and their family are receiving appropriate services, advocating for those not immediately available. Brings concerns about the child’s physical and mental health, education, etc. to the appropriate professionals.
- Monitors case plans and court orders: Checks to see that plans are being followed and mandated review hearings are being held.
- Keeps the court informed: Updates the Denver court on developments with agencies and family members. Ensures that appropriate motions are filed on behalf of the child so the court knows about any changes in the child’s situation.
CASA Volunteers are the “Voice for the Children in Court.” With that kind of impact, CASA is one of the best places to volunteer in Denver.
But remember—you are not alone! You will be supported every step of the way by an experienced Advocate Supervisor. You will also have opportunities to continue education locally with Denver CASA and Colorado CASA, and have access to online resources provided by National CASA.