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Job description
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Volunteers are everyday people who step forward to become a voice for a child living in foster care. After receiving comprehensive training, CASA Volunteers are appointed by local judges to advocate for a child's best interests in the courtroom and beyond.
What makes CASA Volunteers unique in the child welfare system, is their singular focus on a child or set of siblings. While attorneys, caseworkers, and other professionals each play vital roles, they often juggle large caseloads and competing priorities. CASA Volunteers are assigned to one case at a time, allowing them to understand the child(ren)'s specific needs.
The duties of a CASA Volunteer include:
Building a trusted, consistent relationship with a child or set of siblings
Maintaining communication with the adults in a child's life (biological families, teachers, foster families, and professionals)
Providing fact-based recommendations directly to the judge handling the child's case
Steps to Becoming a Volunteer
Step 1: Find a local program in your area.
Illinois CASA is a network of 29 local programs advocating for children in more than 80% of communities in Illinois. Visit our Locations page or click on the county you live in using the map below to find your local program and get connected.
Step 2: Begin the application process with your local CASA program.
Each local program’s process is slightly different, so be sure to contact their team to find out how you can get involved. CASA Staff are prepared to support you through every step of your onboarding and future advocacy.
Step 3: Complete a background check.
Every volunteer advocate must undergo a comprehensive background check. Volunteers cannot have a record of certain criminal offenses, including child abuse, neglect, or sexual crimes.
Step 4: Complete CASA Pre-Service Training.
Before accepting a case, volunteers are required to complete a minimum of 30 hours of CASA Pre-Service Training. This training equips our volunteers with knowledge of the Illinois child welfare system, the role of a CASA/GAL volunteer, and techniques for communicating with involved parties. CASA Pre-Service Training thoroughly prepares you to be an effective advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect in your community.
Step 5: Take the CASA Oath, administered by your local judge.
The final step, which occurs after training but before accepting a case, is to take the CASA Oath. This oath, sometimes called the Swearing In Ceremony, is administered by a judge at your local courthouse. In this oath, you will promise to protect and promote the best interests of the children you go on to serve.
Learn more on our website:
Worksite address
springfield, IL, 62777, US
Who can apply
Review the original listing for work authorization, qualifications and employer requirements.