Description of a CASA of Clinton County Volunteer

A CASA is a trained volunteer child advocate sworn in by the court to speak for the best interests of children who are abused and neglected and are active cases in the court system. The CASA investigates the child’s circumstances, provides fact-based information, and makes recommendations to the court while becoming a source of support for the child.  The CASA program is independent, but works closely with the court, the Indiana Department of Child Services, counsel, and other professionals involved in a child’s case.  CASA volunteers work under the direct supervision of the CASA Director to further the child’s welfare and to expedite the case through the system.  A CASA has regular, in-person contact with the children to have in-depth knowledge of the case and makes written fact-based recommendations to the court.  A CASA’s goal is to assist in moving a child out of temporary placement and into a safe, permanent living arrangement that satisfies the court and meets the child’s needs.

A CASA volunteer’s responsibilities include but are not limited to:

~Conduct an independent investigation through regular in-person contact with the child and other parties to the case in order to supply fact-based information to the court

~Advocate for the best interests of the child in court and other settings

~Review all relevant documents and reports and maintaining complete written records utilizing the online computer based program, Optima.

~Consult regularly with the CASA Director

~Respect the right to privacy and maintain complete confidentiality

~Remain actively involved in every aspect of the case until formally discharged by the court.

~File a written report for court hearings; attend all court hearings and case meetings

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