Every year, the Courts in our area handle hundreds of child abuse and neglect cases. Every one of them is much more than just a file…each is a child’s life. The children assigned to our Program need someone to stand up for them. Someone to stand up for their hopes, dreams, and futures. Someone with a super-heroic heart and a commitment to something bigger than themselves. Someone who is willing to try something unique and forever change a life.
Could that someone be YOU? No prior experience necessary – we will train you in the ways of a CASA!
Qualifications:
- CASA Volunteers must be at least 21 years of age.
- CASA Volunteers must have the ability to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
- CASA Volunteers must possess mature judgement, a high degree of responsibility, and sufficient time to advocate for the best interest of the child.
- CASA Volunteers must be able to relate to persons of different cultures, backgrounds, and socioeconomic statuses.
Becoming a CASA volunteer advocate requires completion of 30 hours of pre-service training provided by CASA. Topics covered during training include an overview of the juvenile court system in South Dakota, sessions on report writing and information gathering, understanding the effects of child abuse, understanding cultural differences, and the roles of various professionals involved with abuse and neglect cases. All potential volunteers must go through an application/interview process before starting training classes.
To volunteer, Express Interest below. For more information, call (605) 339-9492.
