What Skills Do I Need?
No special skills are required--only the desire and commitment to make a difference. CASA provides the necessary training to become a CASA volunteer. CASA volunteers will learn about the child welfare system, how to work with children involved in the system, and other skills necessary to help your assigned child. We do ask that you have:
- An interest in children, their right and special needs;
- The commitment to complete a 30-hour-minimum training course;
- A genuine desire to help;
- The ability to remain objective;
- The maturity to deal with emotional situations;
- Ability to problem-solve;
- Ability to collaborate effectively with a diverse group of people;
- Excellent written and oral communication skills;
- Access to transportation and a flexible schedule;
- A willingness to devote at least one year to a child’s case and;
- Commitment to the mission of the CASA program.
How Do I Get Started?
Below you will find what is needed to become a CASA volunteer. Because the Alameda County CASA program must ensure the safety of children, the process for volunteering is thorough and comprehensive. Returning the application is only the first step toward becoming a volunteer.
The following steps are required to become a CASA volunteer in Alameda County:
- Complete the online Volunteer Application or Download Volunteer Application and mail it to:
Alameda County CASA
Attn: Di Roberts
!000 San Leandro Blvd.
Ste. 300
San Leandro, CA 94577 - The Training and Recruiting Specialist will call you to schedule an interview. The interview includes both general and personal questions and takes about an hour. If accepted, you will also be asked to complete some paperwork, which will take an additional fifteen minutes. This paperwork includes authorizing us to do a background check, as well as making copies of your driver’s license and your proof of automobile insurance. We will also give you a copy of the training schedule.
- Attend 30 hours of training sessions. Topics include mediation skills, cultural awareness and sensitivity, the legal system, courtroom procedures, social services, court report writing, record keeping, special needs of abused and neglected children, substance abuse, early childhood development, and adolescent behavior.
- After completing the training and all other requirements, you will be sworn in as a CASA and as an Officer of the Court during a graduation ceremony.
- After you are sworn in, a Case Supervisor will contact you to schedule a time for you to review prospective cases at the CASA Program office.
If you decide that you would like to become an advocate, please submit your application electronically so that we may include you in our next training. Once your application is received, you will be contacted to set up an interview. If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us at 510.618.1950. We look forward to meeting you. You can make a difference in the life of a foster child!
Download the Volunteer Application Form
You may complete a Volunteer Application by using our web form , or downloading the above form and mailing it in. Once we have received your application, a CASA staff member will contact you to schedule an interview.
For information about upcoming Volunteer Training Sessions, please contact Di Roberts at 510.618.1950.