CASA FACTS
There are over 6,000 children in foster care in Philadelphia.
Volunteer. Contribute your time.
What is a CASA volunteer?
CASA volunteers are appointed by a Philadelphia County Family Court Judge to represent the best interests of children who have been removed from their homes or are at risk of removal, due to abuse or neglect.
What is the CASA volunteer's role?
CASA volunteers serve as the "eyes and ears of the court" by providing a detailed investigation of each child's situation and reporting recommendations to the court.
How does a CASA volunteer investigate a case?
CASA volunteers talk to children, parents, family members, social workers, school officials, health providers, foster parents, and others who are knowledgeable about the child. They also review school, medical, casework and other records pertaining to the child assigned to them.
How does a CASA volunteer differ from a social service caseworker?
Caseworkers are employed by the Department of Human Services of Philadelphia County, a county government agency. CASA volunteers can devote more time to the children assigned to them because they only work on one case at a time. CASA volunteers do not replace caseworkers. Instead, they compliment their activities and act as independent appointees of the Court.
How does a CASA volunteer differ from an attorney?
CASA volunteers do not provide legal representation in the courtroom. However, they do provide crucial information that assists the children's attorneys in presenting children's cases.
Do you have other ways I can help?
If you are interested in volunteering with CASA but are unable to commit the time to working with a child or sibling group, there are other ways to support us. Click here to learn more about becoming a Friend of CASA.
Selection, Training, Commitment - Learn more about becoming a volunteer.
Volunteer Spotlight
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"'To whom much is given, much is expected' sums it all up for me because serving as a CASA volunteer allows me to use my talents not only to ensure that foster children's interests are actually being met by those charged with this responsibility but also to help children in care live normal lives." Charmaine Ijeoma |
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"I enjoy being able to help someone (a child) who cannot technically help themselves when it comes to their needs being met. I also like being a constant in their life whereas they may not have anyone who is constantly looking in on the, not even their parents." Valerie Gentieu |
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"Being a CASA volunteer has given me an opportunity to advocate for a child when that child cannot speak for his or herself. I am glad I can shine a light onto a child's world so others working for the child's well-being can get the big picture." Amy Berger |
TIP: You can also login from the "LOGIN for Volunteers" in top left corner of every page.