How to Get Started on Becoming a CASA Volunteer

What does a CASA do?


​A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer who is appointed by a judge to advocate for the best interests of an abused or neglected child who is in foster care. The CASA volunteer gathers information about the child's situation, attends court proceedings and makes a written recommendation to the judge so that the judge has the information to make a decision about the child's future.  

How to become a CASA:
  • Sincerely care for the well-being of children
  • Be at least 21 years of age
  • Complete an application, including references, interview and a brief autobiography
  • Undergo a criminal background check
  • Complete 40 hours of training
  • Have good verbal and written communication skills
  • Have the ability to be objective and non-judgmental
  • Be available to attend court hearings
  • Commit to CASA program for at least one year or until case is resolved
  • Be sworn-in by the judge

Are you ready for next steps?


There are two ways to submit an application:
Either: 
1. Click the apply button above to go to our application form.
2. Fill out all the boxes of the application form, attach your autobiography, and click submit.
OR
1. Download and complete our Volunteer Application
2. Email the completed form to [email protected] or mail it to Athens-Oconee CASA, 693 N. Pope St. Athens GA 30601. 

Once we've received your application, a staff member will reach out about setting up an interview. If you haven't heard from within 5 business days, please email us at [email protected] or call us at 706-613-1922 ext. 6. 

Are you interested in being on our Board of Directors? 

​Children First, Inc. Board of Directors
Are you a passionate, community-minded family advocate who wants to see our organization become even better? Children First is governed by our amazing Board of Directors, who serve three-year terms.
​We are accepting applications for new Board Members today 
​ find out more here!

Looking for an internship? 

Interns are essential to the day to day functioning of our organization. You can fine more info about our internship opportunities here. 

    If you would like more information on requirements to be a CASA or would like to have a staff member reach out to you about the training process, please enter your contact information below.
     You can also email us at [email protected].