Become a CASA

What is a CASA?

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteers provide a powerful voice of advocacy for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Through interviews with teachers, resource parents, attorneys, caseworkers, counselors, birth parents, medical professionals and family members, CASA volunteers gather information about each child’s situation. They use this information to advocate for the child’s best interests in court, investigating their cases and recommending the best course of action for a safe and permanent home.

CASA volunteers play a vital role in giving children in care a chance at a brighter future, helping us shape a future where every child in Lane County can grow up in a safe, loving environment.

Why become a CASA?

As a CASA, you have the opportunity to profoundly impact a child's life by providing stability, support, and hope during critical moments. You become their voice, advocating for their best interests and ensuring they have a chance for a brighter future.

Being a CASA is a chance to learn new skills, challenge yourself, and be part of a community that believes all children deserve to thrive. Every child needs a hero, and that hero could be you. Start your journey towards making a difference today.

A child is waiting for you! Court Appointed Special Advocates provide a powerful voice for a child who has experienced child abuse and neglect.

Ready to Become a CASA?

  • Fill out the form to attend an online info session, held the first and third Tuesday of each month

  • Be at least 21

  • Complete 40 hours of training 

  • Make a two-year commitment

  • Dedicate 10-15 hours per month

  • Pass a criminal background check

  • Be dedicated to making a positive impact for a child!

To be an advocate you must:

Application & Screening Process

  • Join us via Zoom videoconference to learn more about training schedules, time commitment, and the role of a Court Appointed Special Advocate to ensure the opportunity is right for you. Informational sessions are held on the first and third Tuesday of each month from 12 to 1 pm.

  • Submit an application to be a CASA. Provide three references, including a professional reference, as well as a short story writing sample about a childhood or adult memory.

  • Attend a 1 hour interview to learn more about the role of a CASA Volunteer while sharing info about your skills, interests, and experiences.

  • Submit your fingerprints and pass three background checks: social security, criminal history, and child welfare.

  • Complete 40 hours of training in CASA University over the span of 8 to 10 weeks. Classes are held four times a year. As a fully screened graduate, you’ll be sworn in by a Lane County Juvenile Court judge to become a CASA.

  • Accept a case & begin your advocacy! CASA will help match you to the case of a child or sibling group from the high needs waitlist where you get to become a powerful voice for kids in care who have experienced abuse or neglect.

CASA University

Volunteering with CASA of Lane County is more than just giving time—it's about impacting the lives of abused and neglected children.

CASA of Lane County provides comprehensive training, “CASA University”, that prepares our CASA volunteers for important advocacy work. CASA U is a 40-hour course taught over either 8 or 10 weeks by our skilled and compassionate educators. All applicants are required to complete this training before they are sworn in by the courts.  

After completing the initial training requirement, CASAs receive the support of our highly qualified staff and experienced Peer Coaches on every step of their journey. CASA volunteers are also required to complete a minimum of 12 hours per year of continuing education.

Join us today to create a brighter future for our children.

“I find satisfaction knowing that I can be a constant presence in the life of a child, whether for one year or five years. It’s an honor to advocate for the best interests of a child or sibling group, and to ensure their safety and well-being. Now in my 13th year as a CASA volunteer, I continue to believe in the value and effectiveness of advocating for children in the foster care system.”

—Chris Cunningham, volunteer advocate (CASA) since 2010