Become an Advocate

 Our Advocates are the heart of what we do. A Court Appointed Special Advocate, or CASA Volunteer, serves as the eyes and ears of the court. CASA Volunteers are trained and committed adults who represent and advocate for a child’s best interest during their court hearings. By becoming a CASA volunteer, you can help keep abused and neglected children safe, giving them a chance at finding a stable and permanent home.

 
 

Did you know?

Between 2017 and 2020, there was an average of 2,047 reports of child maltreatment in Cecil County? That equates to 11% of Cecil County’s children facing abuse and neglect. Over the last two years, approximately 160 children have lived in out of home placements in our community, having been removed from their homes due to abuse and/or neglect.

Who are Cecil County’s Foster Children?

  • Cecil County’s Foster Children range in age from infancy to 21 years old, and represent every segment of the county.

  • They have unmet medical, educational, emotional, developmental, and social needs.

  • They may have spent up to three years in foster care. Some never find permanent homes.

  • They are all involved in foster care and the court system through no fault of their own.

Change a Child’s Story

With a CASA by their side, the child or youth:

  • has fewer foster care placements

  • receives more services

  • is less likely to suffer re-abuse

  • is more likely to be placed with siblings

  • has a better chance of finding a safe and permanent home

Each CASA is matched with one foster child or sibling group, and are often the only consistent, reliable adult in the child’s life.

What does a CASA do?

CASA Volunteers get to know the child on an individual basis. Each of our Advocates are assigned to one case at a time. In rare instances, a case might have two siblings together, but it is still one case per one CASA at a time. As a CASA Volunteer, you are appointed by the court to gather information from everyone involved in the child’s daily life. This includes family members, foster parents, teachers, daycare workers, doctors, teachers, lawyers, social workers, and anyone else who has a vested interest in the child’s wellbeing. You are charged with advocating for the best interest of the child. You will spend a significant amount of time with them to not only gain their trust, but to learn what their unique needs are, and find out how you can help them overcome the challenges they face. You are there to offer some stability in their life.

How do I get started?

To become a CASA Volunteer, you must:

  • Be at least 21 years old

  • Pass a background check

  • Complete 30 hours of training

  • Be able to commit to a child until their case has closed, or for at least 1 calendar year

  • Be able to volunteer a minimum of 7 to 12 hours per month

If you fit the requirements and are ready to Change a Child’s Story, click the button below! Your voice is needed!