The volunteer experience starts as a learning opportunity. The CASA program facilitators create a safe and supportive learning environment where volunteer candidates are encouraged to build knowledge and skills in child-welfare policy, judicial practices, CASA program values and best-interest advocacy. This training sets volunteers on a course to begin providing advocacy immediately upon appointment of a child.
Training is intended to build confidence and independent thinking so new volunteers will be inspired to put their all into carrying out best-interest advocacy for the children and families with whom they are assigned to work. Case studies bring the learning to life, as volunteers work with their peers to solve problems and offer solutions to situations that simulate real-world dilemmas.
Training is intended to build confidence and independent thinking so new volunteers will be inspired to put their all into carrying out best-interest advocacy for the children and families with whom they are assigned to work. Case studies bring the learning to life, as volunteers work with their peers to solve problems and offer solutions to situations that simulate real-world dilemmas.
QUALIFICATIONS
A CASA Volunteer must:
NOTE – In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, steps requiring in-person contact will be completed at a later date, when it is deemed safe to do so.
Regarding STEP 3: A staff member will contact you to schedule a pre-screening interview. (Due to COVID-19 recommendations to minimize social contact, you will have the option to complete this interview in-person or via zoom.)
Regarding STEP 5: While CPS History checks are done electronically, Criminal History checks require in-person fingerprinting.
*Note: With permission, we may be able to pull records for persons in certain state employees who have been fingerprinted within two years.
Regarding STEP 5: In-person courtroom observation will resume, only when safe to do so.
A CASA Volunteer must:
- Be 21 years of age or older.
- Successfully pass screening and background check requirements.
- Successfully complete initial training provided by CASA of the Sabine Neches Region.
- Be able to make a 12-month minimum commitment to a case.
- Be able to keep information confidential and work within established program guidelines.
NOTE – In an effort to reduce the spread of COVID-19, steps requiring in-person contact will be completed at a later date, when it is deemed safe to do so.
- Complete the application form found here.
- Register for Volunteer Pre-Service Training by emailing your contact information to training@casasnr.org. (Subject: Register for Training)
- Participate in a Pre-Screening Interview (see note below)
- Complete a CPS History Check
- Complete a Criminal Background Check (requires fingerprinting, see note below)
- Complete Privacy and Security Training (approximately one hour)
- Complete Online Core Advocacy Skills Training (OCAST) Training Lessons 1 through 4 (approximately 10 hours)
- Complete 2 hours of Court Observation (see note below)
Regarding STEP 3: A staff member will contact you to schedule a pre-screening interview. (Due to COVID-19 recommendations to minimize social contact, you will have the option to complete this interview in-person or via zoom.)
Regarding STEP 5: While CPS History checks are done electronically, Criminal History checks require in-person fingerprinting.
*Note: With permission, we may be able to pull records for persons in certain state employees who have been fingerprinted within two years.
Regarding STEP 5: In-person courtroom observation will resume, only when safe to do so.
Online Volunteer Pre-Service Training
Advocates NeededCASA of the Sabine Neches Region needs volunteers to help with the many fundraising events and community activities throughout the year. Check back here, or click the link below to learn about upcoming volunteer opportunities!
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In- Person Training Sessions CASA 4.0
Advocate Training |
Advocate Swearing InAs officers of the court, our volunteers ensure that the children’s needs are recognized and best interests are considered both in the courtroom and in the community.
Advocate Swearing In
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