What training does a CASA Volunteer recieve?

All CASAs must complete the required orientation and training program, criminal/background check and meet with our Executive Director for approval in order to accept a case. CASA volunteers must be at least 21 years of age, and be able to relate to people of different cultural backgrounds. Volunteers must also have a valid California driver's license , and all vehicles that might be used to transport youth must be insured. It is desirable that the volunteers have effective oral and written communication skills, and it is required that they maintain objectivity and keep the confidentiality of the children, their families, and court records. They must adhere to the mission, rules and guidelines of the Juvenile court and Sonoma County CASA program, and comply with required paperwork in a timely manner.

The National CASA training curriculum is a 30-hour training program administered by CCAG in a 6-week format for prospective volunteers. Each session is a five-hour class. Attendance is mandatory for each class. Topics covered in the classes include:

Roles and Responsibilities of the Professionals

• Cultural Awareness
• Dynamics of Abuse and Neglect
• The Child and Permanence - Bonding and Attachment
• Permanence and the Law
• Interviewing Techniques
• The Juvenile Court Process
• Adoption Issues and Advocacy Techniques

In addition, each volunteer is expected to spend a minimum of 30 minutes in court observation, and to attend the swearing-in ceremony with other class members.

Ongoing Training

The National CASA program requires active CASA volunteers to complete a minimum of 12 hours of continuing education annually.

In-service training is intended to supplement the initial training program, and topics will address current areas of concern and consideration for CASAs. CCAG will notify CASAs of in-service training opportunities and will sponsor relevant in-service training sessions on a regular basis. Volunteers may also attend relevant conferences and seminars sponsored by other organizations.

Volunteers may also fulfill the continuing education requirement by reading relevant books, seeing videos, and listening to audio cassettes, CCAG will provide a list of relevant books, videos and audio cassettes.

Volunteers should submit their in-service hours to their supervisor for review and approval.