CASA Volunteer Child Advocate- Mercer

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Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are trained community volunteers who are appointed by a judge to provide advocacy for children who have been placed in foster care due to abuse and/or neglect. Supported by our Case Supervisors, CASAs serve as the "eyes and ears of the court and the voice of the child" and dedicate between 5-15 hours per month to their case. Under the guidance of the CASA staff, volunteer advocates will:

1. Conduct an independent investigation and gather facts to ascertain the needs of the child
2. Visit the child at least once per month
3. Advocate for the best interest of the child my making child-centered, fact-based recommendations through written reports to the court and attendance at court proceedings

CASA volunteers must be at least 21 years old and possess a valid driver's license and have reliable access to a vehicle as in-state travel is required. CASAs must complete a criminal background check, complete a comprehensive 30 hour training program, and commit to 24 months of service.

The first step towards becoming a CASA Volunteer is to attend one of our no-commitment, in-person Information Sessions. There we will discuss the role of Court Appointed Special Advocate, explain the volunteer onboarding process, and answer any questions you may have. Our next session dates for Mercer County are:

Wednesday October 2 11:30am-12:30pm

Wednesday November 6 11:30am-12:30pm

Wednesday December 4 11:30am-12:30pm

For more information, or to register for an Information Session, please contact our Mercer County Advocate Recruiter, Marisa Gilmore at (609)434-0050 ext.101 or mgilmore@casamercer.org