CASA volunteers believe that every child deserves to grow up in a home free of abuse and neglect, and that growing up in a safe home is a fundamental human right. CASA volunteers fight for that right, they lift up children's voices, they lift up children's lives with the belief that every child deserves a safe, nurturing, and permanent home. As a child advocate, the CASA Volunteer Advocate has four main responsibilities: 1. To serve as a fact-finder for the judge by thoroughly researching and investigating the current and background facts of each assigned case; 2. To provide these facts in report form to the judge and to speak for the child in the courtroom, representing the child?s best interests; 3. To facilitate communication between parties in the case; and 4. To continue to act as an overseer throughout the duration of the case, ensuring that it is brought to a swift and appropriate conclusion in the child's best interests. Our CASA?s come from all walks of life, practice different belief systems, have lived all over the world, and have diverse educational and professional backgrounds. Qualifications Needed: -21 years of age or older -Successfully complete the application process -Participate in an interview with CASA of Berks County ED or staff members -Ability to keep all case and court information confidential -Ability to communicate effectively, both written and orally -Ability to respect people from various backgrounds -Ability to transport self -Ability to commit to a min. 1 case until permanency is achieved -Follow guidelines set forth by CASA of Berks Co. in accordance with the National CASA Association
Mission Statement: CASA of Berks County's mission is to provide a competent, responsible, and compassionate court-appointed community volunteer to advocate for each child who faces abuse, neglect, and/or abandonment; our goal, to restore their well-being and ensure the eminent right to a safe, nurturing, and permanent home.