Walla Walla/Columbia Counties CASA Program

Imagine a small child or teenager being removed from their home through no fault of their own and placed in foster care. As a CASA volunteer, you will share with the court that child's wishes and your recommendations for what is in their best interests. It is important work that requires a commitment of your time, your energy, and your heart. We are thoroughly trained by CASA staff and then appointed by a judge. We investigate a child's history, identify rescources and services for the child, and then advocate by making recommendations regarding the child's best interests in a written report to the court. We advocate for interventions and services designed to ensure the child is in a safe, stable, and parmenent home as soon as possible. We work within the parameters of federal and state laws governing child abuse, neglect and dependency cases. Typically the cases require 10 hours a month, and we ask for a commitment of 1 yr to 18 months. The training requires 30 hours from a National Training Manual and 10 hours of court room observation.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are people who advocate for children who are involved in the court system due to no fault of their own, victims of child abuse and neglect. They need a voice, (your voice) in court in order to find a safe, permanent home quickly-whether it means returning to their parents or being adopted. We are individuals who respect a child's inherent right to grow up with dignity in a safe environment that meets that child's best interests. We are individuals who assure that the child's best interests are represented in the court at every stage of the case.