What Is a CASA Volunteer?

A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of a child in foster care. Unlike social workers or attorneys—who often juggle heavy caseloads—CASA volunteers focus on one child or sibling group at a time, giving them the individualized attention they deserve.

Their primary responsibility? To conduct thorough, independent investigations into the child’s circumstances. This includes:

• Visiting the child regularly to build trust and understand their needs.
• Reviewing school records, medical reports, and case files.
• Interviewing parents, foster parents, teachers, and other key figures in the child’s life.
• Attending court hearings to provide the judge with well-researched recommendations.

The goal isn’t just to gather information—it’s to ensure the child’s voice is heard in decisions that will shape their future, whether that means reunification with family, placement in foster care, or adoption.

Why CASA Volunteers Make a Difference

Children in foster care face unique challenges: frequent moves, disrupted education, and emotional trauma. Research shows that having a consistent, caring adult in their lives can dramatically improve their outcomes. According to CASA of Mideast Missouri, children with a CASA volunteer are:

• More likely to find a permanent home. Advocates assist reduce the time children spend in foster care by providing judges with clear, actionable recommendations.
• More likely to succeed in school. Volunteers monitor educational progress and advocate for necessary supports, such as tutoring or special education services.
• Less likely to re-enter the foster care system. A stable advocate reduces the risk of children cycling back into care due to unresolved issues.

Perhaps most importantly, CASA volunteers offer something many children in foster care lack: consistency. Whereas social workers, attorneys, and foster parents may change, a CASA volunteer remains a steady presence throughout the child’s time in the system.

“A CASA volunteer is often the one constant in a child’s life during a time of upheaval. They’re not just advocating for the child—they’re showing them that someone cares,” says a representative from CASA of Mideast Missouri.

Who Can Become a CASA Volunteer?

You don’t need a legal or social work background to become a CASA volunteer. The organization welcomes individuals from all walks of life, provided they:

• Are at least 21 years vintage.
• Pass a background check (including criminal and child abuse clearances).
• Complete 30 hours of pre-service training, covering topics like child development, trauma-informed care, and courtroom procedures.
• Commit to at least one year of service, with an average time investment of 10–15 hours per month.

CASA of Mideast Missouri provides ongoing support, including monthly in-service training sessions and access to a supervisor for guidance. Volunteers are never alone in their advocacy—they’re part of a team working toward the same goal: a safe, permanent home for every child.

What Volunteers Say About the Experience

For many, becoming a CASA volunteer is a life-changing experience—not just for the child, but for the advocate as well. Here’s what some recent graduates of the program have shared:

• “It’s humbling to see how much a child can grow when they know someone is in their corner.” — Susan Schuh, a newly sworn-in CASA volunteer.
• “The training prepared me for the emotional aspects of the role, but nothing could prepare me for the bond I’d form with the child I advocate for.” — Aaron Bailey, CASA volunteer.

On March 3, 2026, CASA of Mideast Missouri celebrated the graduation of 11 new advocates in Franklin County, who were sworn in by Judge Joseph Purschke. The new volunteers—including teachers, retirees, and working professionals—joined a growing network of advocates serving children in Franklin, Gasconade, and Osage counties.

How to Get Involved

If you’re ready to grab the next step, here’s how to become a CASA volunteer with CASA of Mideast Missouri:

1. Attend an Information Session: Learn more about the role and ask questions. Virtual and in-person sessions are available.
2. Submit an Application: Complete the online application form, which includes basic personal information and a brief questionnaire.
3. Complete the Interview Process: A CASA staff member will schedule a conversation to discuss your motivations and ensure the role is a good fit.
4. Undergo Training: Participate in 30 hours of pre-service training, which covers everything from courtroom procedures to cultural competency.
5. Get Sworn In: After completing training, you’ll be officially appointed by a judge and assigned your first case.

The next training class begins in June 2026. Applications are open now, and you can apply online.

Other Ways to Support CASA

If volunteering isn’t feasible, there are other ways to support CASA of Mideast Missouri’s mission:

• Donate: Financial contributions help fund training, recruitment, and advocacy efforts. All donations are tax-deductible, and gifts over $100 may qualify for a Combined Federal Campaign (CFC) tax credit.
• Spread the Word: Share information about CASA on social media or within your community to help recruit volunteers.
• Advocate: Raise awareness about the needs of children in foster care and the importance of CASA programs.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the time commitment for a CASA volunteer?

Volunteers typically spend 10–15 hours per month on their case, including visits with the child, meetings with stakeholders, and court appearances. The commitment lasts for at least one year, though many volunteers choose to stay involved longer.

Do I need legal experience to be a CASA volunteer?

No. CASA provides comprehensive training to prepare volunteers for the role. What’s most important is a willingness to listen, learn, and advocate for a child’s best interests.

What if I can’t make it to court?

Court hearings are a critical part of the advocacy process, but CASA staff will work with you to ensure you’re prepared, and supported. If you have scheduling conflicts, let your supervisor know in advance.

How does CASA differ from a social worker or attorney?

Social workers and attorneys often handle multiple cases simultaneously, while CASA volunteers focus on one child or sibling group. This allows advocates to build deeper relationships and provide more personalized recommendations to the court.

Is CASA only for children in foster care?

CASA volunteers primarily work with children who are in the foster care system due to abuse or neglect. However, the organization’s mission is to ensure every child in the juvenile court system has a safe, permanent home—whether that’s through reunification, adoption, or another stable arrangement.

Key Takeaways

• CASA volunteers are court-appointed advocates who represent the best interests of children in foster care.
• Children with a CASA volunteer are more likely to find permanent homes, succeed in school, and avoid re-entering the foster care system.
• No prior experience is required—CASA provides training and ongoing support to all volunteers.
• The next training class for CASA of Mideast Missouri begins in June 2026, with applications open now.
• Volunteers commit to at least one year of service, with an average time investment of 10–15 hours per month.
• Donations and community awareness are also vital to supporting CASA’s mission.

The Bigger Picture: Why CASA Matters

Missouri’s foster care system serves thousands of children each year, many of whom have experienced trauma that no child should endure. While the system is designed to protect them, the reality is that overburdened caseworkers and attorneys often struggle to give each child the individualized attention they need.

That’s where CASA comes in. By recruiting and training volunteers from the community, the organization bridges the gap between the child and the court, ensuring that no child’s story goes untold. It’s a model that works: National CASA/GAL Association for Children reports that children with a CASA volunteer are half as likely to re-enter foster care and more likely to find a permanent home.

For those considering volunteering, the message is clear: You don’t have to be a superhero to change a child’s life. You just have to reveal up.

If you’re ready to take the first step, visit CASA of Mideast Missouri’s website to learn more and apply. The next class of advocates could include you—and the next child waiting for a voice could be counting on it.