The CASA/GAL is to perform actions or functions to protect the best interest of the child including:
Investigation
You carry out an objective examination of the situation, including relevant history, environment, relationships, and the needs of the child.
Facilitation
You identify resources and services for the child and facilitate a collaborative relationship between all parties involved in the case, helping to create a situation in which the child's needs can be met.
Advocacy
You speak up for the child by making recommendations regarding the child's best interest in a written court report.
Monitoring
You keep track of whether the orders of the court and the plans of the child protective services agency are carried out, and you report to the court or collaborate with the child protective services agency when any of the parties do not follow those orders and plans.
Commitment to be a CASA/GAL
Many prospective volunteers ask about the time commitment to be a CASA/GAL. People from all walks of life are able to fit CASA into their schedules, including full-time 9-5 professionals and full-time stay-at-home parents!
o Volunteers typically carry one to two cases at a time. A "case" is a child or sibling group of children who are involved in the system, and usually involves 1 - 4 children.
o We estimate that each case takes 10-15 hours of time commitment/ month, with this amount often being higher for the first month or so after new case assignment.
o A "case" usually can last up to two years (and in some rarer cases, longer...) and we ask for a commitment for at least the life of your case.
o Many of the volunteer duties can be scheduled at your own convenience. This includes home visits, note-taking, court report-writing, conference with CASA staff, meetings with professionals, and most record review.
o Court hearings are held during business hours, and the volunteer should have at least enough flexibility in his/her schedule to attend hearings once every three months for about a half a day. The good news is that the CASA/GAL staff has input into hearing dates and times!
Our impact this year has changed our community!
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CASA Volunteers
18
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Children Served in 2023
142
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Monthly Miles To Visit CASA Children
809 Miles
Our Sponsors
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Ohio Attorney General - Crime Victim Services -
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Murray & Murray -
Goofy Golf
