Requirements To Be A Court Appointed Special Advocate
CASA Volunteer Advocates are Ordinary People Committed to Speaking Up For Children Who Are Victims of Abuse And Neglect.
Must be 21 years of age
Must successfully pass screening requirements, which include a written application, three reference checks with non-relatives, local, state and national criminal record checks, a National Sexual Offender Registry check, Child Abuse and Neglect Registry check, Adult Protection Registry check, verification of social security number, and personal interview.
Must successfully complete initial training provided by the CASA Program, which is at least 30 hours. Any sessions missed must be made up by the applicant before being appointed to a case.
Must attend three hours of court observation
Must be accepted as a volunteer by the CASA Program Director and sworn in by the Family Court Judge.
Must participate in ongoing training, a minimum of 12 hours annually
Must accept supervision and seek feedback from the Program Director on a regular basis
Must be able to keep information confidential and to work within established program guidelines
KRS 620.505(7) which states: “Employees of the Cabinet shall not become volunteers or employees of the Court Appointed Special Advocate Program.”
Volunteer Training (Required):
Online guided curriculum
Supplemental in-person training & support
Court observation required in Clay, Knox or Laurel Family Court