Frequently Asked Questions
What is CASA?
CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocates. CASA volunteers are trained community members appointed by the court to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
A CASA volunteer gets to know the child, gathers information from the important people in the child’s life, and helps the court understand the child’s needs, safety, well-being, and permanency options.
What does a CASA volunteer do?
A CASA volunteer advocates for a child’s best interests throughout the life of a case.
A CASA volunteer may:
- Get to know the child and their unique needs
- Visit with caregivers, teachers, caseworkers, attorneys, and others involved in the child’s life
- Gather information to help the court make informed decisions
- Advocate for the child’s safety, permanency, and well-being
- Remain a steady, consistent presence while the case is open
CASA volunteers do not replace caseworkers, attorneys, therapists, caregivers, or family members. Their role is to focus on the child and help ensure the child’s needs remain at the center of the case.
Do I need a special background to become a CASA volunteer?
No. You do not have to be an attorney, social worker, parent, or expert in the child welfare system.
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. What matters most is a heart for children, the ability to listen and learn, and the commitment to show up consistently for a child during a difficult time.
CASA provides the training, tools, and ongoing support needed to serve with confidence.
Who can become a CASA volunteer?
To become a CASA volunteer, you must be:
- At least 21 years old
- Able to pass criminal and CPS history background checks
- Willing to complete CASA advocate training
- Able to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing
- Willing to commit to a child’s case for at least one year, or until the case closes
How long is CASA training?
CASA advocate training is a 6-week commitment that includes a combination of in-person classes and online training completed between class sessions.
In-person classes are typically held on Mondays or Wednesdays. New advocate training classes typically begin every other month.
When is the next CASA training class?
Our current training class is already in session, and our next class is expected to begin in mid-June.
Training classes are offered throughout the year, so if the next class does not work with your schedule, we would still love to visit with you about a future training opportunity.
How much time does a CASA volunteer spend on a case?
The amount of time can vary depending on the needs of the child and the case. CASA volunteers should expect to stay actively involved and communicate regularly with CASA staff, the child, and other important people connected to the case.
Volunteers are asked to commit to a case for at least one year, or until the case closes.
Will I have support after training?
Yes. CASA volunteers are supported every step of the way.
After training and background checks are complete, new volunteers are sworn in and assigned to a case with guidance from CASA staff. Volunteers receive ongoing support, resources, and supervision throughout their advocacy work.
What counties does CASA for the Highland Lakes Area serve?
CASA for the Highland Lakes Area serves children and families in:
- Burnet County
- Blanco County
- Llano County
- Lampasas County
- San Saba County
Can I help CASA if I’m not ready to become an advocate?
Yes. There are several ways to support CASA’s mission.
You can:
- Join Friends of CASA
- Make a donation
- Help with events
- Share CASA’s mission with others
- Support fundraising efforts
- Connect CASA with local businesses, churches, or civic groups
Not everyone is called to serve as a court-appointed advocate, but everyone can play a part in supporting children and families in our community.
How do I apply to become a CASA volunteer?
The first step is to complete the online volunteer application. Once your application is received, a CASA staff member will contact you with next steps and information about upcoming training opportunities.
Apply to Become a CASA Volunteer
What should I do if I suspect child abuse or neglect?
If you believe a child is in immediate danger, call 911 or local law enforcement.
To report suspected abuse or neglect in Texas, call the Texas Abuse Hotline at 1-800-252-5400 or report online through the Texas Abuse Hotline website. DFPS states that the hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
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Still have questions?
We would love to visit with you and help you decide whether CASA is the right volunteer opportunity for you.
Phone: 325-388-3440
Email: info@highlandlakescasa.org
Apply to Become a CASA Volunteer