Court Appointed Special Advocates
Advocating for safe, stable, permanent homes for children who have experienced abuse or neglect.
“Hands down the most rewarding volunteer opportunity I’ve ever experienced.”
Christine Tipton, NVFS Board Member and former CASA Volunteer
Reach out to us— we’re here to help.
Laura Jameson
Training and CASA Supervisor
703.655.8610
Questions?
Find your local program
While there is no requirement to work or reside in the area you volunteer, please see a list of all CASA programs here in case there is a better geographical fit.
Be the one who shows up for a child every time.
For children involved with the child welfare system, almost everything changes — caseworkers, placements, schools, attorneys. A CASA volunteer is the one person who stays.
Appointed by a judge, a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteer commits to one child: getting to know them, listening to them, and making sure their voice is heard in every courtroom and case file. Children with a CASA are more likely to find safe, permanent homes.
Right now, children in our community are on a waitlist for a CASA volunteer. You can be the change they urgently need.
How do I become a CASA volunteer?
Who can become a CASA volunteer?
No legal background required — just a commitment to show up for a child.
We especially welcome applications from bilingual, male, and diverse volunteers.
Spanish, Farsi, and Dari speakers are currently in high demand.
Eligibility requirements:
- 21 or older with a valid driver’s license
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Ability to clear a criminal background check and a child abuse registry check
- Complete 39+ hours of pre-service training
- Commit to a minimum of 18 months
- 10–20 hours per month when assigned to a case
How to Become a CASA Volunteer
A clear, supported path from application to your first case.
1. Attend an Information Session
- Required before applying, offered monthly online.
2. Apply
- Submit your completed application to casa@nvfs.org.
3. Screening
- Includes a 1.5-hour interview and background check.
4. Training
- 39-hour pre-service training held in Spring and Fall.
5. Induction
- Sworn in by a local judge and ready for your first case.
Right now, there are children in our community navigating this process alone.
They need someone who knows them, who will stand beside them, and who will make sure their voice is heard.
You can change a child's story for the better.
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