CASA seeks volunteers to start training Nov. 27
The Office of the Child Advocate - Court Appointed Special Advocate Program of Delaware is expanding its efforts to represent the interests of abused and neglected children. The program is seeking qualified adults to serve as CASA volunteers.These trained members of the community who are appointed by Family Court judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children in court proceedings. The CASA volunteer conducts an independent investigation into the child's life, and provides information and recommendations to the judge. CASA volunteers work with attorneys, social workers, and family members to attain the goal of a safe and permanent home for each child.
CASA volunteers have varied professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. They are selected on the basis of their objectivity, competence and commitment. Each volunteer accepted into the program must complete 30 hours of initial training. Casework supervision is provided by full-time program coordinators.
Spots are available for fall training. Dates and times for the next session are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday, Nov. 27, Tuesday, Nov. 28, and Thursday, Nov. 30, at the Lewes Public Library. The last training day is Friday, Dec. 5, when volunteers will gather from 12 to 4:30 p.m. at Sussex County Family Court and from 5:50 to 7:30 p.m. at Delaware Tech Owens Campus. Volunteers must attend all full days of training.
For more information and to apply, go to http://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate, call the CASA office at the Office of the Child Advocate at 302-752-3775 or email Melissa.Palokas@state.de.us.
