CASA offers upcoming training sessions

The Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Program trains and supports community volunteers to advocate for a safe and permanent home for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. Currently, the Northwest Iowa CASA program in O’Brien County needs at least three to four new volunteers to effectively serve local children.
“Our goal is every child who needs a CASA volunteer has one,” said Kathy Fritz, program coordinator.
CASA volunteers come from a variety of backgrounds and receive training in topics including the juvenile justice system, social services, and child trauma response. Upon completion of training, volunteers are sworn into service by a judge. Once assigned to a case, volunteers regularly visit the child, as well as talk with the child’s parents, teachers, service providers, and other adults in the child’s life. After developing an understanding of the child’s situation, they write and submit reports to the courts, making recommendations about the child’s needs and best interests.
“CASA volunteers work collaboratively with others involved with the case and make sure the voices of these children are heard,” Fritz said. “They connect with the child and help make sure the child’s case stays on track.”
Fall and spring training sessions are scheduled, but interested people need to apply now to begin the screening process. For more information or to apply, contact Fritz at 712-749-5184 or visit https://childadvocacy.iowa.gov.
The CASA program is overseen by Iowa’s Child Advocacy Board, which became part of the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services July 1, 2023.