On the CASA website, it lists the qualifications to becoming a volunteer. The main qualification is a sincere concern for children. This is what brought me to the CASA program. I have always had a deep concern for the welfare of children. I worked in a school system for 16 years, 13 of those being in an elementary school working with children from all walks of life. When I read in the newspaper about the CASA volunteer program being started, I knew that was where I wanted to spend my time volunteering. I have not been sorry that I made the decision to do this. There were many volunteer opportunities available, but helping children in foster care seemed to be the most important one for me.

CASA training was intense. We heard stories that would make a lot of people run the other way. I was shocked at some of the stories I heard. Those of us who stayed in the program and became CASA volunteers have now experienced those stories we heard about during our training. Instead of running the other way, we now run straight to court, to DFCS, to schools, to homes, foster homes, group homes, and even counselor’s offices. Our first priority is our CASA children and we work to make sure their voice is heard and their best interests are met.

My first CASA case was a young man who had been removed from his home due to neglect. DFCS placed him in his grandmother’s home while his mother worked her case plan. I made an appointment and visited. I was a nervous wreck. The more I talked with him, the easier it became and we established a rapport immediately. When I had to go to court to present my report to the judge, I thought my knees would not stop knocking or my heart stop racing. When the case was called and I had to stand before the judge, I kept thinking please don’t ask me anything because I don’t know if I can speak without my voice trembling. Luckily, after the judge read my report, he thanked me for such a comprehensive report and all I had to do was say thank you. He did take my recommendation and signed an order accordingly. After my first experience, it has gotten easier. It is a rewarding experience each time you visit your CASA child and their face lights up. They know you care and are there for them. Knowing you are making a difference in a child’s life keeps you coming back for more cases.

There are many children in the foster care system. If you have a genuine concern for children and want them to have a voice and if you want to be an advocate for what is in their best interest, CASA volunteering is the way to go. You will not regret making the decision to make a difference in a child’s life.