As a CASA volunteer, one can expect to visit their assigned child; speak regularly with important adults in the child's life; speak with professionals to verify social services and to gather updates on their child's progress through the court system; work closely with supervisors to provide best services for their child; submit official reports to the judge detailing their investigation and provide recommendations for the safety and wellbeing of their child; and attend their child's court hearing.
CASAs are required to complete 30 hours of specialized training. Trainings are offered twice a year with limited opportunities for independent study training. Our training is guided by the National CASA/GAL pre-service program and provides trainees with a wide breadth of instruction, such as basics of child development, court processes, family dynamics, cause and effects of abuse and neglect, as well as trauma-informed advocacy for children navigating the court and social service systems. In addition to training sessions and outside homework assignments, each volunteer will have the compelling opportunity to complete 10 hours of independent court observation.
Before applying to become a CASA, please review the following eligibility requirements.
You must be at least 21 years old.
You must have a valid driver's license and access to reliable transportation.
You must have access to a cellular phone.
You must complete a clear background check.*
You must have excellent communication (both written and oral) and time management skills.
You must have available time (2-5 hours/week) and commit to an 18-month volunteer period.
*Norfolk CASA completes reference checks and extensive background checks on all of our volunteers.
Official training dates are:
Fall 2024: September 17th-October 10th
Spring 2025: May 13th-June 12th
Got questions? Contact us for further information.
Would you like to donate to our mission of serving Norfolk's abused and neglected children through court appointed volunteer advocacy? You can make a tax-deductible donation here:
