The comprehensive training to become a CASA volunteerwas professionally developed by the National CASA Association in consultation with child abuse and neglect professionals, juvenile courtattorneys and judges, CASA staff, and CASA volunteers from all over the country. Using this standard curriculum, our goal during CASA training is to ensure that volunteers receive the tools they need to be the best possible advocate for the children they will serve while providing a positive and stimulating experience. We realize you are taking time from your regular lives and families and we try our best to ensure that the time you are giving is well spent.
All trainings are held at the CASA Office at 100 North Street, Suite G12, Canton, GA. 2013 Training Schedule. Training is provided in the following areas;
Introducing the CASA Volunteer Role
- The Missionof the CASA Program
- Principles/Concepts of CASA Volunteer Work
- Attitudes, Values & Skills That Enhance CASA Volunteer Work
Introducing Law & Child ProtectionSystem
- System & the Court
- The History of the Child Movement
- Laws Governing Child Abuse & Neglect Cases
- How a Case Enters the DFCS System
- Who Are the Participants in a Case?
- The Juvenile Court Process
Exploring Cultural Awareness
- Exploring Diversity
- Vocabulary
- Exploring Cultural Heritage
- Cultural Sensitivity
- Understanding Personal Values
- Cross – Cultural Communication
- Developing an Action Plan
Understanding Families Part I
- Family Strengths
- Resources in Families
- Understanding Families through culture
- Stress in Families
- Risk Factors Associated with Child Abuse & Neglect
Understanding Families II
- Domestic Violence
- Substance Abuse
- Mental Illness
- Poverty (Situational vs. Generational)
- The Importance of Family to a Child
Understanding Children
- How Children Grow and Develop
- Attachment/Separation
- Permanence for Children
- Educational, Emotional and Psychological Issues
- Resiliency
Communicating as a CASA Volunteer
- Basic Communication
- Establishing Rapport & Trust with Children
- Using a Collaborative Approach
- Dealing with Conflict
- Confidentiality Revisited
Gathering Information
- How a CASA Volunteer is appointed to a case
- Planning the Assessment & Gathering Information
- A Successful CASA Volunteer Interview
- Community Resource Homework Due
Reporting & Monitoring
- Organizing Information
- Writing Court Reports & Making Effective Recommendations
- Appearing in Court
- Monitoring a Case
Pulling It all Together
- Building Support & Self Confidence
- Volunteer Safety
- Getting the Necessary Support & Supervision
- CASA Program Office Procedure
- Children – The Heart of the Matter
- Expectations & Evaluation
- A Course Review: Essential Concepts for the CASA Volunteer
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