Marshall County CASA Volunteers Needed
MARSHALL COUNTY — Marshall County Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) volunteers are needed. Training isn’t scheduled but CASA Director Chastity Keller anticipates April.
As described by former CASA Director and current volunteer Melody Kruger, a CASA volunteer is that “go-to” person who helps children overcome. “One of the things that hit me during training was we talked about resilience. We were talking about kids and all they are facing in society. When you look at what it is for kids who are resilient, who are able to overcome, one of the main things they talk about is having that person who is a “go to”. Someone who is very interested and who will listen to them. That’s really what CASA is all about!”
Marshall County has 26 current CASA volunteers; in addition to the Board of Directors. Keller has set a goal for 10 more volunteers to train this year.
To be a CASA volunteer one must be 21 years of age or older, have a genuine concern for the well being of children, possess the ability to remain objective, have a realistic view of a child’s needs, has a commitment to complete the initial training program and work well with others, possess the maturity to understand and deal with complex and emotional situations, and have the ability to communicate well both verbally and in writing.
CASA volunteers are tasked with four key roles and responsibilities; fact finder, advocate, facilitator, and monitor.
As a fact finder, the volunteer must search for relevant facts and ensure that those facts are before the court at every hearing.
As an advocator, the volunteer must present to the court their independent assessment of the child’s needs and interests. They must also prepare and present a statement of the wishes of the child, and ensure the child’s legal rights, needs and interests are protected.
As a facilitator, the volunteer will assist the court, parent, guardian or custodian, social services and legal counsel in the resolution of the problems relating to the delivery of services.
As a monitor, the volunteer will ensure that all parties comply with the orders of the court and inform the court of any situation that may require a modification. The volunteer must be prepared to initiate proceedings to modify or review court orders when necessary to protect the interest of the child.
Keller estimates an average of 10 hours of service a month per volunteer.