Qualifications:
- Must be at least 21 years of age.
- Must complete a written application with three references.
- Must successfully pass screening/background check with finger printing.
- Successful completion of pre-service training program.
- Attend a minimum of 12 in-service hours annually.
- Able to respect and relate to individuals from various backgrounds and cultures in a caring and sensitive manner.
- Good oral/written communication skills.
- Understands and is willing to commit to a one-year volunteer position serving on a minimum of one (1) assigned case.
- Willing to accept supervision, training and evaluation from the professional staff.
- Able to provide own transportation.
- Must be a dedicated child advocate, willing to learn the best possible means to assure that the needs of the children in the Mahoning County juvenile system are being met.
Benefits of the Volunteer:
- Ability to impact the life of a child who is in the juvenile justice system as a result of abuse, neglect and/or dependency.
- Opportunity to interact with all facets of the juvenile system and its key players.
- Opportunity to gain extensive knowledge about child abuse and neglect and the legal and social services systems in Mahoning County.
- Increased awareness of educational opportunities (conferences, workshops, etc.) in the child advocacy and juvenile arena.
- Opportunity to become a part of the growing community of child advocates, assuring that all children who need a CASA/GAL volunteer will have one.
CASA Training:
The Mahoning County CASA Program strives to provide two training opportunities each year for individuals to become volunteers. Trainings are currently held in the Juvenile Justice Center and on-line. Trainings are five weeks long with 15 hours on-line and 15 hours in the classroom.
Please contact Cathy Kristan at 330.740.2239 or email CASA@mahoningcountyoh.gov. You can also fill out an application online.