BECOME A CASA

A CASA is a trained volunteer, appointed by a judge, who advocates for the best interests of a child in foster care. CASA volunteers get to know the child and gather information from everyone involved in their life (family members, foster parents, teachers, social workers, and more) to make informed recommendations to the court.

CASAs are the "eyes and ears" of the judge, helping ensure that each child’s voice is heard and that their needs don’t get lost in the system.

In Pima County, over 1,600 children are currently in the foster care system. But only 180 CASA volunteers are available to support them - that’s just 12% of kids with someone consistently advocating for their needs.

Children with a CASA are:

• More likely to find a safe, permanent home
• More likely to succeed in school
• Half as likely to re-enter foster care
   

A consistent, caring adult can make all the difference. That adult could be you.

As a CASA, you will:

• Build a healthy, trusting relationship with your assigned child
• Talk with people involved in the child’s life (like teachers, caseworkers, and caregivers)
• Attend court hearings and child welfare meetings
• Submit reports and recommendations to the judge based on what you’ve learned
• Advocate for sibling visits and other services when needed
   

You will not:

• Bring the child into your home or around your family
• Replace the role of a foster parent or case manager
• Make legal decisions
• Do this work alone - CASAs are fully supported by staff each step of the way

• Average time: 10–20 hours/month
• Training: 30 hours of pre-service training (no legal background required)
• Support: You’ll have a dedicated CASA coordinator to guide and support you
   

This is a meaningful way to serve vulnerable youth without becoming a foster parent or changing your entire lifestyle. Many CASA volunteers work full-time, travel regularly, or serve as part of a co-CASA team to share responsibilities.