Volunteer
We know that CASA programs are recognized nationally as one of the best ways to ensure that abused and neglected children in state custody have the greatest chance of success in life.
We also recognize that one of biggest obstacles to meeting our goal of providing a CASA volunteer for every child who needs one is the difficulty of recruiting and retaining volunteers. That is why the stated purpose of Friends of Alaska CASA is to support CASA volunteers in Alaska. Learn how we support CASA volunteers.
You can support CASA programs in Alaska by volunteering in the following ways:
- Become a CASA volunteer (see below)
- Volunteer with FAC (see sidebar)
Become a CASA Volunteer
CASA volunteers are ordinary citizens from all walks of life. You don’t need any special qualifications to become a CASA volunteer; you just need to care about children.
What is a CASA volunteer?
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are ordinary citizens who advocate for abused and neglected children in court. They investigate a case thoroughly and advise the judge on what they think is in the best interests of the child, whether it be reunification with birth family, placement with another family member, such as a grandparent, or adoption. With the information provided by CASA volunteers, judges are able to make more informed decisions as to what is best for the child.
What do CASA volunteers do?
These are some of the tasks a CASA volunteer performs:
- Spends time getting to know the child.
- Visits the child in the child’s placement and at school.
- Interviews the adults (relatives, teachers, social workers, therapists) who know the child.
- Ensures the child’s needs are being met and that appropriate services are provided to the child.
- Attends court hearings and meetings regarding the child.
- Makes recommendations about what course of action is in the child’s best interest.
- How do I become a CASA volunteer?
To learn more about the CASA program and how to become a volunteer, visit the Alaska CASA website.
