QUALIFICATIONS OF A CASA

A. Advocates must exhibit sound judgment, maturity and a high degree of responsibility. They must have an interest in children and their rights.

B. Advocates must have the time and commitment to complete the training and a minimum of one year to volunteer for the program.

C. Advocates must have the ability to work with and relate to children, families, and professionals associated with their cases.

D. Advocates must be sworn in by a Family Court Judge.

E. Advocates must be at least eighteen years old.

F. All prospective volunteers must successfully complete and application process which include:

2. A completed and signed written application.

3. Background check and State Central Registry of Child Abuse and Maltreatment check.

4. A personal interview.

5. Forty hours of training.

6. Nine hours of court observation comprised of three hours in each Judges Courtroom.

7. A simulation case with corresponding Court Report.

Acceptance of a volunteer is at the discretion of the ACCORD Executive Director and CASA Program Director. Failure to complete any of the qualifications will result in removal from the program.