CASA of Southwest Iowa

CASA volunteers have empathy, integrity, and a desire to help make a better life for a child. They are good communicators, organized, and able to reach out, not only to children and their families but also to others involved in the social welfare system. CASAs have a number of roles to perform: 1. Investigator/Assessor: review all records on the case; interview parties and professionals who have knowledge of the case, talk to children, family, and all collateral resources. 2. Reporter: prepare a written report for each hearing-outlining summary of assessment including recommendations made in the child’s best interest. 3. Monitor: provide follow-up on the case after the judge’s decision to see that court-ordered services are being provided to child and family; oversees progress on the case; advises child welfare professionals of concerns. Qualifications -Have a genuine interest in advocating for children, their rights, and needs -Have time to perform CASA duties and a schedule that allows for the completion of mandatory duties -Can commit initially to a one-year case assignment as a CASA and understand that a CASA is expected to continue case responsibilities until the case or the assignment is terminated by the court -Have the ability to interact with people involved in the child welfare system — child, family, and professionals -Have the ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing -Are at least 19 or older -Be able to pass a criminal and child abuse background check -Are not employed by the state board or the DHS, the Department of Inspections and Appeals, the District Court, or an agency with which DHS contracts for services for children