CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is a nonprofit organization that trains volunteers to advocate for children who have been removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. The primary function of CASA is to ensure that these children’s voices are heard in court proceedings, providing them with a dedicated advocate who works to represent their best interests. CASA volunteers are appointed by judges and work closely with social workers, attorneys, and other professionals to ensure the child’s safety and well-being. CASA serves children from birth to age 18, though in some cases, volunteers may continue to Gainesville Area X Out of State International Panama City Area Jacksonville Area Pensacola Area Miami/South Florida Area Tampa Bay Area Orlando Area Tallahassee Area Remote/Virtual Page | 2 of 3 Revised 3/27/24. advocate for older youth until they reach adulthood. Social workers play a key role in gathering information about the child's situation, developing case plans, and coordinating services. CASA volunteers supplement this work by providing a unique, one-on-one perspective on the child’s needs, helping to guide decisions related to foster care, reunification, or adoption. Through this support, CASA helps ensure that children receive the care and stability they need during a difficult time.
The student will need transportation for in-office days. There is travel to the courthouse for court observation hours. The courthouse is located less than 2 miles from the agency’s office. The student does not need liability insurance. Video or audio taping is not permitted in the courthouse, but can be permitted outside of court hearings. The CASA office is open Monday-Friday from 8:30-5:00pm. We do have weekend events or evening trainings/events that are available for the student to participate in for internship hours. No Stipend.