The Value of CASA, National CASA/GAL Association 

What is a CASA volunteer?

CASA stands for Court-Appointed Special Advocates. CASA of Brown County is a volunteer-based nonprofit organization that provides a voice for abused and neglected children under the legal protection of the court system. Judges appoint CASA volunteers to visit with children under court protection and submit monthly reports on their safety and wellbeing (visits are currently virtual due to the COVID-19 pandemic). These court reports help judges make well-informed decisions about each child’s future.

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Last year alone, 133 CASA volunteers advocated for 232 children in Brown County and 33 CASA volunteers advocated for 55 children in Marinette County. There is a child waiting for your advocacy.

Why is it important for children under court protection to have a CASA volunteer?

CASA volunteers are a source of hope and critical support for abused and neglected children under court protection, many of whom are in foster care. CASA volunteers build special relationships with these children through regular contact and advocate exclusively on their behalf in monthly reports to the judge. For many abused and neglected children, CASA is the only constant during a chaotic, uncertain time.

A child with a CASA volunteer is more likely to receive much-needed services, spend less time in foster care, find a safe, permanent home, and succeed in school. CASA volunteers make a lasting impact.

Are CASA volunteers trained and supervised?

CASA of Brown County thoroughly trains volunteers to be the best possible advocates for abused and neglected children. Our volunteers complete a 30-hour pre-service training program that includes topics such as the role of the CASA volunteer, the child welfare system, needs and development of children, trauma, mental health, poverty, professional communication, cultural competence, educational needs, and permanency.​ All classes must be completed for a volunteer to graduate and be sworn in by the judge as a CASA volunteer. Training typically takes place on weekday evenings.*

After a CASA volunteer is sworn in, they work closely with an Advocate Supervisor on the CASA staff who provides support and guidance throughout the court process. CASA volunteers are also required to complete 12 hours of continuing education each year.  

*Please note that interviews and training sessions are taking place VIRTUALLY due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

What kind of person is a CASA volunteer?

You do not need any specialized skills to become a CASA volunteer. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life, and most are employed full-time. CASA volunteers must be 21 or older, undergo a background and reference check, and take part in a personal interview. They are patient, open-minded people who have good communication skills, a history of following through on commitments, and a willingness to accept guidance. Above all, they care about children and their futures.

How much time does it take to be a CASA volunteer?

It will generally range from 6 to 8 hours per month. Most of this time can be spent during weekday evenings, as well as phone calls and occasional meetings during working hours. To share the responsibilities, some volunteers partner with a friend, spouse, or other relative who also is a CASA volunteer.

How does CASA serve children from diverse backgrounds?

Children of all racial, ethnic, and cultural backgrounds enter protective care. To serve children effectively, CASA of Brown County strives to maintain a pool of volunteers, staff, and supporters who reflect the diversity of our community. We welcome volunteers of all races, national and ethnic origins, religions, ages, sexual orientations, genders, gender identities, and gender expressions. Volunteer diversity helps us to recognize and respond to the needs of individual children and provide informed, culturally competent advocacy. We have a special need for Black/African American and Hispanic/Latino volunteers, as well as volunteers who speak more than one language.

Frequently Asked Questions

We serve both Brown County and Marinette County, and are actively recruiting volunteers to advocate for children in both counties.