CASA Volunteers

Be a voice for Abused & Neglected Children in Court

Every year hundreds of abused and neglected children in Montana are in need of safe, permanent, nurturing homes. Too many spend years moving from one temporary home to another. They may have no family to call their own. They are more likely than other children to face homelessness, unemployment, even prison as adults.

That's where CASA steps in. CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) was created in 1977, to make sure the abuse and neglect these children suffered at home doesn't continue as abuse and neglect at the hands of the system.

A CASA volunteer provides the judge with a carefully researched background of the child and the child's family to help the judge make a sound decision about the child's future. Each case is as unique as the child. The CASA GAL (guardian ad litem) helps the judge to determine whether it is in the child's best interests to stay in foster care , be returned to the parent(s), or be released for permanent adoption. To prepare a recommendation to the court, the GAL talks with the child, parents, family members, social workers, school personnel, health providers, and others familiar with the child's situation and background.

As trained Advocates, CASA GAL volunteers are appointed by judges to be a voice for these children in court. The result is they are placed into safe, loving home where they can thrive.

Ordinary People Doing Extraordinary Things

CASA volunteers are ordinary people who are committed to doing what is best for a child. As a CASA volunteer, you will be able to work with confidence. All our volunteers are thoroughly trained in courtroom procedure, social services, the juvenile justice system, and the special needs of abused and neglected children.

CASAs come from all walks of life, with diverse professional, educational, and ethnic backgrounds. Over 50 percent work full-time. The common denominator among all CASAs is their sincere concern for the well-being of children.

Become a CASA volunteer and be rewarded with some of the most powerful and fulfilling experiences you can find.

Relating to the Children

CASA GALs offer children trust and advocacy during complex legal proceedings. They explain to the children the reasons their cases are before the court, roles of the judge, attorneys, and social workers, and what is happening in court. CASAs also encourage children to express their own opinions and hopes, but always the CASAs remain objective observers.

The Montana Advocate, our quarterly newsletter, offers more details about our program and our volunteers.