CASA volunteers SHOW UP, STAND UP, and SPEAK UP
for children and teens in foster care.
What is a CASA?
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are volunteers. They walk alongside children and teens in foster care who have experienced abuse or neglect.
After completing CASA training, an advocate is appointed to a child or sibling group. Volunteers visit with their CASA kids at least twice a month and make sure their needs and wishes are heard.
Amidst the uncertainty of foster care, a CASA keeps showing up, no matter how many times a child may change foster homes, schools, or caseworkers.
In short, CASAs are consistent, caring adults.
No volunteer experience compares to being a CASA.
“Opening your heart to a child and becoming a CASA will change your life! This is the closest thing that I have seen to a guardian angel, so a CASA could also be a Court Appointed Special Angel!"
Greg Howard
CASA Volunteer Since 2024
The CASA Community
Each CASA volunteer has a dedicated supervisor supporting them every step of the way. Advocate Supervisors join volunteers at team meetings and court hearings and are always available to answer questions, offer advice, and provide encouragement.
Volunteers also have access to continuing education opportunities, social events like CASA Coffee in Joplin and Carthage, and monthly activities for CASAs and their kids—from painting and movie nights to holiday parties and more!
Join the fun, make a difference, and become a CASA!
Become a CASA
If you meet the following requirements, YOU could be a CASA volunteer!
- ability to visit your CASA child or teen 2x/month
- be at least 21 years old
- have high school diploma or equivalent education
- participate in an application interview, provide references, and pass background checks
- complete CASA training
- participate in child’s case meetings and court hearings* (with notice)
*Court hearings occur approximately every 3-6 months
Steps to Get Started
1. Submit an online application.
The application takes approximately 20 minutes and asks for 3 references (including email addresses).
2. Come to the CASA House for a 1-hour interview.
Chat with our staff! We look forward to getting to know you and answering any questions you have about becoming a CASA volunteer.
3. Complete CASA training.
We offer multiple training options. You can choose between a 6-week Advocate Training (class meets once a week) or a 3-day CASA Boot Camp. Contact lisa@jascocasa.org for upcoming training dates.
4. Meet your child.
After an introductory conversation with your Advocate Supervisor, you’ll be matched with your CASA child/ren. Then your journey as a CASA volunteer begins!
FAQ
Who are the children you serve?
CASA volunteers support children and teens who are in foster care due to abuse or neglect. The children on a CASA case may range in age from newborn to 21 years old.
What is the time commitment?
We ask CASA volunteers to visit with their CASA kids twice a month. In addition, CASAs attend family support team meetings and court hearings (accompanied by their Advocate Supervisor) approximately every 3-6 months. CASAs average about 5 hours per month of volunteer time.
What would a visit with my CASA child look like?
CASAs (Court Appointed Special Advocates) visit with their CASA kids at their foster homes as well as at school, daycare, the CASA House, or out in the community. During visits, CASA volunteers talk one-on-one with the child, listen to their feelings and wishes, observe their living conditions, and engage in fun, age-appropriate activities.
Some examples include:
- Playing games, like tag , hide-and-seek, basketball, or ping pong
- Drawing, painting, making crafts, or baking together at the CASA House
- Having lunch with the child at their school or taking them out for a meal or special treat
- Attending the child's school performances or cheering them on at their athletic events
- Participating in Jasper County CASA's monthly activities such as costume tea parties, dance nights, outdoor excursions like fishing and biking, cooking classes, and more!
Not Ready to Apply?
Let us know what questions you have! Contact our Community Outreach Coordinator, Lisa Sewell, at lisa@jascocasa.org or complete our volunteer inquiry form.
Upcoming CASA Volunteer Info Sessions:
Stop by the CASA House for a no-pressure information session with Jasper County CASA staff to learn all about becoming a CASA volunteer!
Thursday, October 15th from 12:00-12:30 PM
Wednesday, November 18th from 12:00-12:30 PM
Wednesday, December 16th from 12:00-12:30 PM