Volunteer Advocate

16th Judicial District - serving the counties of: Clark, Comanche, Ford, Gray, Kiowa, and Meade.

Description

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) make a life changing difference for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Each volunteer is appointed by a judge to advocate for a child's best interest in court. Our volunteers help judges develop a full and clear picture of each child's life and story. Their advocacy enables judges to make the most well-informed decision for each child.

Requirements

  • Must be at least 21 years-old
  • Applicant should be able to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
  • Must complete a Volunteer Application
  • Must complete screening interviews.
  • Must sign release of information forms for KBI, DCF Central Registry checks, social security verification, and DMV check.  Pass National Sex Offender Registry and local county checks.
  • Complete 30 hours of pre-service training and successfully complete all screening requirements.
  • Ability to respect and relate to people from various backgrounds (economic, cultural, educational) and in a variety of settings.
  • Ability to deal with hostility, anger, and other emotional attitudes, while maintaining objectivity and impartiality.
  • Ability to gather and record factual information accurately.
  • Application, three references, and interviews must indicate an ability to be objective, to function professionally, and a concern for the welfare of our children as the primary motivation.
  • Must respect confidentiality and sign a confidentiality agreement
  • Must be committed to serving as a CASA volunteer for at least one year and sign a Statement of Commitments

Bonuses

Benefits

Responsibilities

  • Sign court document “Oath of CASA Volunteer” prior to receiving information on each appointed case.
  • Complete an intensive independent review of each case:
    • Review appropriate records and reports, gathering all pertinent information
    • Interview all relevant parties; maintain regular contact with pertinent individuals such as case managers, teachers, therapists, parents, etc.
  • Maintain adequate contact with the child in order to build and sustain rapport, at least monthly
  • Report findings to the court:
  • Provide an electronic version of a written report containing factual information and recommendations at least 10 days before scheduled court hearings
  • Attend court hearings concerning the child
  • Participate in the development of a written permanency plan:
  • Ensure that appropriate services are being provided to the child and family
  • Maintain up-to-date, complete records about the case, including appointments, interviews, and information gathered about the child and the child’s life circumstances
  • Monitor implementation of court orders and case plan tasks
  • Turn in monthly contact reports by the 10th of each month or quarterly based on arrangements with your supervisor.
  • Keep program staff informed of all activities and important developments related to the CASA program.
  • Receive direct supervision and guidance from program staff
  • Follow standards and guidelines established by the National CASA Association and the Supreme Court of the State of Kansas
  • Return entire file, including case notes and other documents, to the CASA office when case is completed
  • Maintain strict confidentiality, even following case closure 
  • Encourage a focus on permanency planning and achieving a permanent home for the child(ren) as quickly as possible.
  • Attend 12  hours of annual in-service training
HOURS:
Volunteers give an average of 5-10 hours a month.
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