Ordinary community members are doing extraordinary things for our most vulnerable children, and so can you.
Did you know there are kids right here in Porter County whose parents are struggling with addiction, domestic violence, and mental health?
Children who have not been safely parented and have experienced trauma become involved in the child welfare and legal systems where life-altering decisions about their futures are made in a courtroom.
Fortunately, these children are appointed CASAs: devoted community volunteers who are trained to make sure their needs are not lost in the shuffle but remain top priority in decisions that are made in court.
“For an adult, a year or two may seem to pass by in the blink of an eye, but for a child it is an eternity… These children should not and cannot wait.”
“We need to show the next generation that love and kindness freely given can make all the difference in the world. So many of these kids don’t have anyone to turn to, and it’s our responsibility to be that person to those in need.”
“There are children who need someone dedicated to being in their corner. Children need to feel hopeful, even for just a moment, that they matter and that their voice is important and has meaning.”
“I love being able to help the kids. It’s amazing to see what happens to a child when they know that there really is someone who cares. I’m not perfect, but I’m perfectly able to be a CASA and do what needs to be done.”
Who Can Help
CASAs come from all walks of life and different backgrounds and professions. They are drawn to CASA volunteering for varying reasons, but they all share one thing: they are dedicated and caring individuals committed to advocating for vulnerable children.
Volunteers must be 21 years or older, and should be responsible people with good common sense who have the ability to remain objective, relate to families and professionals, and communicate in-person and in writing.
Training & Support
Interested new volunteers must schedule an interview and pass a background check before being accepted to the program. Trainees participate in a 30-hour comprehensive training curriculum that covers everything a volunteer will need to know in order to provide powerful advocacy.
Once assigned a case, CASAs are paired with a staff supervisor who offers support and guidance every step of the way.
The CASA program provides opportunities for continued formation along with opportunities for gathering and sharing through various in-service and peer support activities on a monthly basis.
Learn even more about training and volunteering with CASA!
Next Steps
- If you are looking for a truly unique and meaningful volunteer opportunity in Porter County and you care about the best interests of children, fill out an application now.
- Learn about how you can volunteer and make an impact on the lives of at-risk children. Attend our next Info Meeting
- Not interested in volunteering at this time? Find out other ways to support our mission.