CASA Volunteers are screened, trained, and consistent adults who advocate for Our Kids. Please read about our qualifications, the application and enrollment process, and upcoming training information below:
Qualifications
The CASA Volunteer must be an adult and have the following qualifications:
- Age 21 or older, pass a background check, and three references
- Possess emotional maturity, stability, accountability and common sense
- Be objective and flexible
- Be able to keep information confidential
- Be able to work within established guidelines
- Have the ability to interview, observe, listen, and analyze written material
- Be able to write clearly and concisely
- Be willing to commit to the program for a minimum of 24 months
Application and Enrollment Process
Now that you’ve decided to make a difference, you might be wondering how to become a CASA volunteer. The steps are listed below. Staff will be in contact with you during each stage of the process. If you have any questions about being an advocate visit our Frequently Asked Questions page, call our staff at (217) 384-9065, or send an e-mail to hvelasco@casa4kids.org.
- Submit an online application
- For a written application, you can choose to print the online application from the link.
- Do NOT submit any documentation directly to the Department of Children and Family Services.
- An accurate email address must be provided for each reference listed.
- Mail applications to CASA at 301 S. Vine; Lincoln Square Mall, Suite 210; Urbana, Illinois; 61801; or fax to (217) 384-6450; or e-mail to hvelasco@casa4kids.org.
- Our trainer will email you about the status of your application.
- Complete a pre-training interview and fill out the background check form.
- Successfully participate in and complete pre-service training. CASA’s training class combines national CASA materials along with local information so you can hit the ground running when you become a volunteer with us. (27 hours classroom)
- Participate in the swearing in-ceremony. (30 minutes)
- Observe Court. (6 hours)
- Meet your coordinator, select a case and develop an action plan. (2 hours)
Upon successful completion of pre-service training, background, and reference checks, the CASA Volunteer will be formally accepted as an advocate at the official swearing-in ceremony.
Upcoming Training Information
Winter 2025 Pre-Service Training
- January 21 – January 23, 5:45 PM – 8:45 PM
- January 28 – January 30, 5:45 PM – 8:45 PM
- February 4 – February 6, 5:45 PM – 8:45 PM
All nine classes will be held in- person. These sessions will cover the role and tasks of the advocate, the child welfare system and laws, and factors of the children we serve. Please plan to attend all of the sessions. If you are interested but don’t know when you can join our training class, we encourage you to still apply!
