“The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) has been serving Ventura County since 1985,” according to Barbara Parks, MBA, Marketing Communications & Recruitment Coordinator. “Originally CASA operated under Interface Family & Children Services. In 2011 we emerged from Interface and became a fully independent 501 (c) (3) nonprofit organization that we are today.”
“CASA originated in Washington State in 1977. It is a national organization with programs across the country supporting children in foster care. CASA believes that every court-dependent abused or neglected child should be safe, have permanence and the opportunity to thrive, and have a strong, compassionate volunteer advocate.
“In 1983, a Ventura County public defender brought the concept of CASA to the attention of the Dependency Court. The judge presiding over the court was fully aware of the growing need for ‘a consistent adult to look out for the best interest of an individual child.’ Concerns were mounting over the frequent changes of caregivers and services providers that were involved in foster children’s lives, as well as the negative impact of these changes on them.” (www.casaofventuracounty.org)
“The CASA of Ventura County program supports youth in foster care ages 0-21,” according to Parks. “Currently, most of our waitlist consists of infants and toddlers (ages 0-5). We are actively seeking more volunteers to advocate for our youngest children. We are also seeking bilingual volunteers.
“We ask volunteers to commit to their case until the end of dependency. Cases typically last 12-18 months, though timelines can vary. CASA volunteers are often the only consistent, positive adult in a foster-youth’s life, making reliability essential. This is a unique and meaningful volunteer opportunity, and we currently have many opportunities to work with infants and toddlers.”
In regards to becoming a volunteer, Parks said, “The first step is to attend an information session. You can sign up by completing an inquiry form at: www.casaofventuracounty.org; or, by calling us at: 805-389-3120. You will initially learn about the requirements, rules and responsibilities of a CASA volunteers. After attending the initial session, applicants apply, complete a background check, and-once approved-participate in our training program. Janet Barron, MPH, does our training sessions. We offer four training sessions per year. After completing the training, volunteers are sworn in as officers of the court.”
Make a difference by becoming a CASA volunteer in order to be of service and support to others in need of it.