Ordinary people doing extraordinary things…

To help us find qualified volunteers, and to help you decide if you wish to become an advocate, we follow a specific selection and screening process. Read on to see if becoming a CASA is for you.

Screening and Selection Process

Bitterroot CASA Volunteer Advocates must meet the following qualifications:

• Must be at lease 21 years of age
• Pass screening requirements
• Make two year commitment

Advocates must demonstrate ability to:

• Keep all client and court information confidential
• Communicate effectively, both orally and in writing
• Respect and relate to people from various backgrounds and lifestyles (economic, cultural, educational, etc.) in a variety of settings
• Transport oneself to a variety of locations
• Deal with hostility, anger, and other emotional attitudes
• Maintain objectivity
• Gather and accurately record factual information
• Demonstrate sound judgment and character
• Have a basic understanding of child development and family relationships
• Work independently as required, as well as the ability to accept supervision and direction as needed
• Advocate training includes a comprehensive 30-hour initial training.

Advocates are required to participate in 10 hours of in-service or relevant ongoing education each year.

Initial Inquiry

Contact Bitterroot CASA to express your interest. Our Program Director will speak with you to answer your questions and schedule an interview.

Application

Each potential CASA volunteer must complete a written application. Once the application is accepted, an interview will be scheduled.

• Interview I ~
The applicant will be interviewed by program staff to determine the applicant's willingness, ability, and appropriateness to perform the roles and duties of a CASA. Qualified applicants will be invited to attend the next training program.


• Applicants who are accepted into training must submit the following:
1. An FBI/DOJ background check
2. Three positive references
3. A statement of auto liability coverage*
   *must be updated annually

References

Each applicant must provide three references regarding the character, competence and reliability of the applicant, and suitability for assuming the role of a CASA volunteer.