Assigned by a Family Court Judge, Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are trained community volunteers who monitor and report on the physical health, behavioral health and education needs of children who are in foster care or at risk for foster care. CASA volunteers fulfill their role through telephone and face-to-face contacts with the child, biological and foster parents, case managers and other service providers who are involved in the child’s life. Volunteers can be assigned at any point in the case and remain assigned until permanency – with either the biological or extended family or through adoption – is achieved. Volunteers are also required to commit to one year of service, complete background clearances and attend 30 hours of initial training. Much of the CASA’s work occurs Monday through Friday during regular business hours. 

Learn more about the vital role of a CASA volunteer in this short video below:

For more information, please contact Michaele McIlnay at 914-345-5900, ext. 7518 or mcilnaym@mhawestchester.org.