Court Appointed Special Advocates are volunteers trained to speak up for court-involved youth in the District of Columbia. CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of foster youth or juvenile justice-involved youth based on a unique and supportive relationship.
Working with only one child or family, CASA volunteers form a mentor-like relationship with a youth, engaging them in fun activities and supporting goal accomplishment, while gathering information about each child’s situation. As Court Appointed Special Advocates, volunteers submit reports to the court, make recommendations in the best interest of the child, and provide the court with valuable insight into the youth’s life. CASAs dedicate a minimum of 10-15 hours per month to their case for at least a year.
In addition to its Standard program, serving youth who have experienced abuse or neglect, CASA DC has 5 unique programs to support youth in special populations:
- BRIDGES, which serves youth involved in the juvenile justice system;
- EMPOWER, which supports youth survivors of trafficking and sexual violence;
- Family Treatment Court, which supports reunifying families struggling with substance abuse;
- MAP, serving immigrant and first-generation youth; and
- Preparing Youth for Adulthood, which empowers transitioning youth towards a successful adulthood.
All CASA volunteers form a supportive one-on-one relationship with youth and provide individualized advocacy, but each program offers unique opportunities for engagement and impact.
Visit casadc.org and complete an application today or email volunteer@casadc.org to learn more!
