A Court Appointed Special Advocate is a person who is a positive influence, a consistent caring adult, a witness of the facts, a specially trained and sworn in representative, a friend with a large heart, and most importantly a person who can change an abused or neglected child’s life. CASA volunteers can wear many hats to be the advocate of a child in the family court system. CASA volunteers build a relationship with the child to understand and advocate for the best interest of the child, whether it is recommending services, expressing the child’s unique situation in court or explaining what is happening to the child.

CASA volunteers are appointed by a family court judge to be the voice of that child in court. CASA volunteers are supported by a professional team and go through specialized training. If you have room in your heart to change the life of an abused or neglected child we would love to have you become part of Oklahoma CASA.

Steps to Becoming a Volunteer.

Step 1. Look to see which local CASA programs are in your area.You can choose which program is most convenient for you. With 19 programs serving 61 counties in Oklahoma, and some tribal court, we’re sure you’ll find something close by.

Step 2. Contact your local CASA program.Your local program will interview you in person and ask you to fill out an application. You will also be asked for 5 references to guarantee that you are a person of character, competence, and reliability.

Step 3.
Complete a background check.
CASA volunteers undergo a thorough background check that includes fingerprinting to ensure that our children are in good hands. Volunteers cannot have a record of certain criminal offenses, like child abuse, neglect, or any sexual offenses.

Step 4.
Complete the required training.
All volunteers must complete an initial training of at least 30 hours. This training prepares you to be a strong advocate and covers legally mandated topics. You’ll learn about the dynamics of child abuse and juvenile law and court structure.

Step 5.
‍Take your oath before the judge.
That’s it! You’ve become a sworn CASA volunteer. Now you are ready to be appointed to a child who desperately needs your help.