Become a
CASA Volunteer
Bitterroot Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) trains and supports volunteers who strive to ensure the emotional, physical, and educational well-being of children who have experienced abuse and neglect. We advocate for the safe reunification of families. We support establishing safe, nurturing, permanent homes, giving children the opportunity to thrive.
At Bitterroot CASA, our mission is to provide a voice for abused and neglected children in the court system. We work to ensure that every child has a safe and permanent home where they can thrive. Our team of dedicated volunteers is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.
What is a CASA?
Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers serve as the “eyes and ears” of the judge, gathering relevant information about the child and the family. They make recommendations to the judge regarding what is in the child’s best interests. A CASA volunteer works to ensure that the child is placed in a safe, permanent, nurturing home as quickly as possible.
Who is a CASA?
CASA volunteers are compassionate, objective, self-motivated individuals from the community who are trained to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children. CASA volunteers submit an application with references, complete an interview with the program staff, and attend training. A complete criminal history and child abuse registry check are performed on each applicant. Upon completion of their training, CASA volunteers are sworn in by the juvenile court judge and adhere to strict confidentiality and professionalism throughout their appointment.
What does a CASA do?
Advocate: CASA gives the child a voice in court. CASA volunteers speak up for the child by making recommendations regarding the child’s best interests in a written court report.
Investigate: CASA evaluates the child’s situation through an objective lens. CASA volunteers carry out an objective examination of the situation, including relevant history, environment, relationships, and needs of the child.
Facilitate: CASA identifies resources and services for the child to encourage a collaborative relationship between all the parties on a case.
Monitor: CASA ensures the rights of abused and neglected children are being protected and the child’s best interests are being met
At Bitterroot CASA, our mission is to provide a voice for abused and neglected children in the court system. We work to ensure that every child has a safe and permanent home where they can thrive. Our team of dedicated volunteers is committed to making a difference in the lives of children and families in need.
What is a CASA?
Court Appointed Special Advocate volunteers serve as the “eyes and ears” of the judge, gathering relevant information about the child and the family. They make recommendations to the judge regarding what is in the child’s best interests. A CASA volunteer works to ensure that the child is placed in a safe, permanent, nurturing home as quickly as possible.
Who is a CASA?
CASA volunteers are compassionate, objective, self-motivated individuals from the community who are trained to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children. CASA volunteers submit an application with references, complete an interview with the program staff, and attend training. A complete criminal history and child abuse registry check are performed on each applicant. Upon completion of their training, CASA volunteers are sworn in by the juvenile court judge and adhere to strict confidentiality and professionalism throughout their appointment.
What does a CASA do?
Advocate: CASA gives the child a voice in court. CASA volunteers speak up for the child by making recommendations regarding the child’s best interests in a written court report.
Investigate: CASA evaluates the child’s situation through an objective lens. CASA volunteers carry out an objective examination of the situation, including relevant history, environment, relationships, and needs of the child.
Facilitate: CASA identifies resources and services for the child to encourage a collaborative relationship between all the parties on a case.
Monitor: CASA ensures the rights of abused and neglected children are being protected and the child’s best interests are being met
Volunteer Training
30-hour Pre-Service Training
Online and In-Person Options Available
Our comprehensive training program covers everything you need to know to become a Bitterroot CASA volunteer. You'll learn about child welfare laws and policies, how to communicate with children and families, and how to write court reports. We offer both online and in-person training options to accommodate your schedule.
Continuing Education
Ongoing Training and Support
At Bitterroot CASA, we understand that children are shaped by circumstances both within and outside family systems. That's why we offer ongoing training and support to our volunteers. You'll have access to a variety of resources and training opportunities to help you continue to grow and develop as a CASA volunteer.
Advocacy Skills
Active Listening
Effective Communication
Cultural Competence
Ongoing Relevant Training
Community Resources
Peer Support
Trauma Informed Care