Advocates are the heart of CASA of Laramie County and without them we would not exist in the community capacity that we do. We realize that not everyone has the availability of time to be a CASA for a child but may still want to contribute. Donations of time and assistance are needed with fundraisers, becoming a board member, mentoring advocates, general office assistance, assistance with conferences and trainings, donation of food, donation of money, and the list goes on. If you are interested in becoming an advocate in any capacity, please contact us at surbanek@casalc.org or at (307) 222-1902. Thank you ahead for your support of CASA.
Print out the qualifications and benefits of becoming a CASA advocate
Print out the CASA Advocate Application & Application Supplement
Necessary knowledge, skills, and other requirements to be a CASA advocate:
Sincerity about the well-being of children.
Must be 21 years of age.
Pass a criminal background check, state central registry screening.
Ability to keep all information confidential.
Ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.
Ability to respect and relate to people from various backgrounds.
Ability to transport self.
Ability to deal with hostility, anger and other emotional attitudes.
Ability to maintain objectivity.
Ability to gather and record factual information accurately.
A basic understanding of child development and family relationships.
Does not require specific educational training beyond a high school diploma or GED.
Responsibilities of a CASA advocate
Visit the child monthly.
Ensure the child’s wishes are made known to the judge.
Keep the child informed of all aspects of the court proceedings.
Keep all records and information regarding the child and their case confidential.
Gather independent information about the child to make recommendations to the judge in the child’s best interest.
Interview the parents, guardians, caretakers, social workers and other service providers involved.
Attend and participate in court hearings and other related meetings, as well as prepare written court reports.
Identify potential resources within the family and community to meet the child’s needs.
Maintain focus of the child until permanency is achieved.
Although we cannot provide you with monetary rewards, there are many benefits to being a CASA advocate.
These benefits include the opportunity to:
Make a difference in the life and future of a child who has been a victim of abuse, abandonment, exploitation, and/or neglect.
Help a child/children find permanency in a safe, loving home.
Assist judges in obtaining a clearer picture of a child’s life as well as the child’s wants, needs and desires.
Gain an understanding of the District and Family courts, legal proceedings, and social service agencies.
Develop/utilize communication skills.
Develop/utilize assertiveness.
Utilize your past experience/skills.
Form friendships with like-minded people in your community.
Training and support we provide you:
CASA advocates are required to complete 30 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of in-service training annually.
CASA advocates will be sworn in by a local district court judge upon completion of training.
CASA advocates are to follow guidelines established by the National CASA Association.
CASA advocates will have access to additional training opportunities offered by other agencies.
CASA advocates shall receive direct supervision and guidance from program staff.
CASA advocates are encouraged to call the CASA office at any time with any questions/concerns.