What exactly does a volunteer do?
CASA/VGALs are assigned to an abuse or neglect case by a judge. They conduct thorough research on the background of the case, reviewing documents, interviewing everyone involved, including the child. They make reports to the court, recommending what they believe is in the best interest of the child, providing the judge with information that will help them make an informed decision. CASA/VGALs can be instrumental in assuring that a child or family receives services which the court has ordered - things like substance abuse counseling or special education testing. During the life of a case, a CASA/VGAL monitors the child's situation to make sure they remain safe. CASA/VGALs may be the only constant the child knows as they move through the labyrinth of the child welfare system.
What does it take to be a CASA/VGAL?
Commitment
When you take on a case, you take on a child's future. Most programs ask a commitment of at least a year. Some cases last longer. The amount of time you give to a case will vary depending on the stage of the proceedings. It takes about 10 to 15 hours of your time a month to be a CASA/VGAL.
Objectivity
The CASA/VGAL's role is to represent the best interests of the child. That may not always mean what the child wants. CASA/VGALs must be able to talk to everyone involved in a case and remain objective in their recommendations. While they will establish a relationship with the child, the CASA/VGAL's role is not to become a Big Brother or Sister to the child.
Good Communication Skills
CASA/VGALs must be able to talk to a wide variety of people from healthcare professionals to school officials to an angry parent. CASA/VGALs present written reports to the court, sometimes speaking in the courtroom on behalf of the child's best interests.
Yes, I want to help abused and neglected children in my community!
If you are interesting in speaking for a child and becoming a Court Appointed Special Advocate/ Volunteer Guardian Ad Litem for Snohomish County please call (425) 388-7854.