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FAQs

  1. What is CASA Youth Advocates, Inc. of Delaware and Chester counties? 
    CASA Youth Advocates (Court Appointed Special Advocates) ensures children who have experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and achieve a bright future. Our mission is to empower community volunteers to connect with and champion children and youth involved in the child welfare system, advocating for equity, resources, stability and permanency. 
     

  2. What is the role of a CASA Advocate? 
    As a CASA Advocate, you are responsible for providing independent, objective information and recommendations to the court – based on your observations, information gathered from the child, caregivers, and professionals, and a thorough review of records. CASA advocates are consistent, caring adults in the lives of the youth we serve, assessing what is needed for the child to thrive, and advocating for their best interest both in and out of the courtroom. Some activities a CASA Advocate participates in are as follows: 
    • Meet with the assigned CASA youth at least once per month where the youth lives 
    • Speak with the child’s caregivers 
    • Speak with professionals involved in the child’s care 
    • Attend meetings that center on youth, 
    • Collect and review records related to the child 
    • Prepare a written court report 
    • Appear in court (every three to five months) to share your recommendations 
     

  3. Is there any special training or background required to become a CASA Advocate? 
    No! Anyone over the age of 21 can become a CASA Advocate, there is no special background required. 
     

  4. What is the process to become a CASA Advocate? 
    Prospective volunteers are asked to: 
    • Attend a virtual information session 
    • Submit an application 
    • Participate in an in-person interview 
    • Complete our core training program lasting approximately 37 hours - training cohorts are held 5 times a year, alternating between daytime and evening 
    • Complete required clearances 

    Once all the requirements are completed, volunteers are sworn into service as a CASA by a Delaware or Chester County Dependency Court judge. 
     

  5. After training, will I be managing a case on my own? 
    Upon acceptance of a CASA case, advocates are assigned a Case Supervisor, who guides them through their journey as an advocate. Your Case Supervisor will be there to answer any questions and assist as needed. New advocates are also matched with a Peer Mentor, a veteran CASA advocate, to provide additional support and guidance for the first 30 to 60 days after case assignment. 
     

  6. What is the time commitment required? 
    CASA Advocates commit to serving for one case or at least 18 months of service. Advocates should expect to spend 10-15 hours each month on their case. CASA Advocates are also expected to participate in on-going training to support their continued growth, completing an hour of training per month or twelve hours per year. 
     

  7. I’m interested in becoming an advocate! What is my next step? 
    The next step to becoming an advocate is attending an information session and applying. Information Sessions are recommended but not required – you can proceed right to the application if you are ready! 

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