Volunteer Advocate Job Description

Purpose and Objective

A CASA volunteer is a trained community member that is appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interest of abused and neglected children in foster care in accordance with PA Juvenile Act (Title 42 Act PA C.C. Sec. 6301 et.seq.)

Qualifications

·         21 years of age or older

·         Successfully complete application process

·         Participate in interview with CASA staff members

·         Ability to keep all case and court information completely confidential

·         Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally

·         Ability to respect people from various backgrounds

·         Ability to transport self

·         Follow guidelines set forth by CASA of Lancaster County in accordance with the National CASA Association

CASA volunteers shall be recruited and accepted into the CASA Program without regard to gender, disabilities, age (21 or older), race or other condition.

Duties and Responsibilities

·         Ensure a child’s best interests are represented at every stage in the case.

o   Most importantly, speaking with the child and also, speaking with others who play a major role in the child’s life (parents, foster parents, teachers, doctors, therapists etc)

o   Maintain complete and confidential records about the case

o   Review appropriate records related to the case

·         Report findings to the court by submitting formal written reports to the Judge and attorneys on the case.

o   Provide a written court report containing factual information and recommendations at each court hearing

·         Ensure representation of child’s best interest.

o   Attend appropriate child focused meetings and participate collaboratively

o   Participate in case conferences

·         Monitor a case following each court hearing.

o   Ensure case plan is being followed

o   Ensure court ordered services are being provided to the child and the family in a timely manner

·         Consult regularly with CASA staff.

o   Develop case plan

o   Check in with CASA staff once a week during initial 3 month probationary period and every other week there after

o   Submit court reports to a minimum of 10 days prior to court date

o   Participate in 3 month, 6 month and annual evaluations