Frequently asked questions about being a CASA volunteer
How often and how many trainings does CASA offer for volunteer candidates?
CASA offers 4 trainings in English and one in Spanish.
Can I be a CASA if I don’t drive or have a car?
Yes, however you need to be aware that the only forms of transportation you can take in this situation will be a train or a bus or walk.
Can I go on vacation while being a CASA volunteer?
Yes, we understand, respect and support that CASA volunteers lead lives that are filled with activities outside of CASA. All CASA asks is that you communicate your taking a vacation with your program manager and peer supervisor as well as the youth you are visiting. You do not have to give any details about your trip, only the time that you will be absent and when you will be back. This gives the youth something to look forward to and a certainty that you will be back. It also allows your peer supervisor and/or program manager to support your CASA youth in your absence should something come up. Some CASA volunteers have sent postcards and even kept in touch with their CASA youth while on vacation but this is not a requirement.
Do youth request their own CASAs?
Yes, they do. Most of the requests for a CASA come from the youth’s support team, such as therapists, social workers and attorneys. Most of the time, these support team members discuss the request with the youth and make them aware of what a CASA is and the youth accepts. The older youth (15-21), do however on occasion make their own requests to have a CASA.