How do you become a CASA in Indiana?

How do you become a CASA in Indiana?

To become a CASA volunteer you must be 21 years old and complete:

1. An online application – CLICK HERE TO COMPLETE APPLICATION.
2. An informal interview with a CASA staff member.
3. Criminal background and Child Protective Services checks.
4. 30 hours of pre-service training (approximately ½ is online, and ½ is in person)

Is CASA in Indiana?

Indiana has one of the largest networks of GAL/CASA programs in the nation. Indiana volunteers spoke for 24,340 abused and neglected children in cases in 2019. Indiana law requires the appointment of either a guardian ad litem or a trained court appointed special advocate in abuse and neglect cases.

Do CASA volunteers get paid?

One of the most common concerns we get from potential volunteers relates to how much our volunteers are financially responsible for during their advocacy at CASA. However, CASA volunteers are only expected to pay for reasonable travel expenses and small purchases during child visits.

Is CASA nationwide?

There are CASA programs in 49 states and the District of Columbia. Nationwide more than 85,000 citizens serve as CASA volunteers in nearly 1,000 programs. Every year more than 260,000 abused and neglected children are served by CASA volunteers.

How much does a guardian ad litem cost in Indiana?

The services of a GAL/CASA volunteer are not free; but when the law requires the judge to get a GAL/CASA volunteer for the case, they are usually free to the parents. However, in cases like divorce, the parents must pay for the volunteer’s services. The amount may be around $50.00 per hour.

What is the difference between CASA and GAL?

Court appointed special advocates (CASAs) and guardians ad litem (GALs) are appointed by judges to represent children’s best interests in child abuse and neglect cases. CASAs are trained volunteers; GALs may be attorneys or trained volunteers.

Is CASA a good program?

CASAs do make a real difference in the lives of the children they advocate for. Studies show that children who have a CASA stay in foster care for much shorter periods of time. Because we give the Court system an independent view of what is best for this particular child, our reports are of great value to the Court.