Our agency could not exist without the support of our dedicated volunteers. If you are interested in helping us advocate on behalf of children, please read on. Also, if you have a special interest, skill, or idea that you think could help further our mission, please tell us about it! Our spring 2008 training for new volunteers begins on April 9th and is held every Monday and Wednesday from 6 — 9 PM. Classes run from April 9th to May 7th. Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) We ask CASA volunteers to commit to at least one year of service. Two years is preferable, since many cases in the dependency court are not resolved within one year. Additionally, CASAs must: Be at least 21 years of age Complete the application form Undergo a background check, including a criminal history check and child abuse clearance Participate in a screening interview Complete a minimum of 35 hours of initial training Sign a confidentiality agreement Take an oath in court agreeing to abide by the laws and policies relating to CASA Participate in a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education per year - as required by law Be willing to participate in court hearings (usually, 2 per year) Be able to travel to meetings, court, and other relevant appointments Be able to weigh facts carefully before reaching a conclusion and making a recommendation Individuals are not eligible to become CASAs if they: Are under age 21 (although they may be invited to participate in the training program) Have a felony conviction or history of perpetrating child abuse/assault/neglect. Have a past or present relationship with Children & Youth Services that would be likely to create a conflict or compromise the advocate's role. The initial training consists of 35 hours of instruction based on a curriculum developed by the National CASA Association. Topics covered include: the court and child protection systems; child development; cultural diversity; legal issues; interviewing; report-writing. Completion of training does not guarantee case appointment. FUNDRAISING We always appreciate volunteers willing to devote their time and energy to helping ensure we have the resources that will allow us to continue our mission. Perhaps you would be willing to: Solicit members for our Donors Clubs Hold a private fundraising event with proceeds going to CASA Identify new resources (e.g., corporate sponsors, grant sources) Serve on our fundraising committee COMMUNITY AWARENESS/OUTREACH We always appreciate individuals willing to help us tell more people about CASA and why we do what we do. Perhaps you can help by: Arranging for a CASA representative to speak to your organization/group Staffing our information table at health/community fairs Helping us with volunteer recruitment Helping us with annual events like our Holiday Toy Drive and Stand for Children Representing us at community activities/partner agency events Keeping your elected officials up-to-date with CASA activities BOARD MEMBERSHIP Currently, we are seeking new, active members for our Board of Directors. Individuals must be over 21, willing to commit a minimum of 2 years, and be willing to undertake the responsibilities of the position. While there is no formal donation requirement, all members are expected to make an annual donation and participate in fundraising activities. We value diversity and welcome individuals from a variety of backgrounds and of all experience levels. We encourage our board members to participate in CASA training, so that they better appreciate our role in the community. However, to avoid any conflict of interest, active CASAs are not able to serve on the Board. INTERNSHIPS We offer internship opportunities through the local college and university work-study or field placement programs.