Court Appointed Special Advocate Volunteer

CASA (An EAC Network Program)

Nassau, NY, USA
Permanent
Hybrid
Bilingual (preferably Spanish)over 21 years oldpeace corps OR Americorps OR Military OR Teacher OR Judge OR Guardian ad litem OR Child psychiatrist OR School administrator OR Were a member of Kappa Alpha Theta sorority OR Victim advocate OR Eagle Scouts

Role Overview

CASA of Long Island (Nassau and Suffolk County) is seeking dedicated volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). In this role, you will act as a powerful voice for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. You will provide critical, independent information to the court to help judges make the most informed decisions about a child's future. This is a role for resilient individuals who are prepared to navigate complex systems and advocate fiercely for the best interests of vulnerable children to place them in safe, nurturing, and permanent homes.

Key Responsibilities

  • Investigation and Advocacy: Conduct thorough research into the child's situation by interviewing school officials, providers, attorneys, child welfare staff, and others directly involved with the child and the family to provide independent recommendations to the court.
  • Child Visitation: Meet with the assigned child regularly in person to build a stable relationship and understand their needs and wishes.
  • Court Representation: Attend family court hearings and provide written and oral testimony regarding the child's well-being and progress.
  • System Navigation: Work within a complex, often bureaucratic social service and legal system to ensure the child does not get lost in the shuffle.
  • Case Monitoring: Track the progress of court orders and ensure that the child is receiving necessary services, particularly in medically intense or complex cases.

Requirements

  • Commitment: Minimum 12-18 month commitment to ensure stability for the child.
  • Time: 12-20 hours per month, with the flexibility to attend in-person meetings and court dates during business hours.
  • Resilience: Ability to maintain motivation despite slow progress and minimal public recognition.
  • Location: Must be able to travel to locations across Nassau, NY.