What is CASA?
In Spanish “CASA” means “home.” In today’s juvenile system, CASA refers to a Court Appointed Special Advocate: a trained community volunteer appointed by a judge to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children. The CASA concept is based on the belief that every child has a right to a safe, permanent, loving home.
What Does a CASA Volunteer Do?
CASA volunteers are people like you and me who care about children. They work alongside attorneys and social workers as appointed officers of the court.
When a CASA Volunteer is appointed by a judge, he or she gathers information on the child or children by reviewing records and talking with anyone who has information about the child such as parents, teachers, neighbors, doctors, therapists, school officials and, most importantly, the child.
The CASA Volunteer then submits a report to the court that includes a recommendation on what they feel is in the best interest of the child.
You Can Become a CASA Volunteer
CASA Volunteers come from all walks of life, with a variety of professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. No special or legal schooling is required. Volunteers are selected on the basis of their objectivity, positive background check, competence and commitment.
If you would like a packet of information, please send e-mail to loribaldwin@casaofrapidcity.org or contact us at 2650 Jackson Boulevard, Rapid City, SD 57702 or by calling 605-394-2203.
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Chad Catron, Executive Director
Michelle Towne, Executive Assistant
Anne Dunne, Administrative Assistant
David Romig, Supervisor of Volunteer Operations
Susan Jagim, Volunteer Coordinator
Laura Benson, Volunteer Coordinator
Patrick Okonkwo, Volunteer Coordinator
Lori Baldwin, Advocate Recruiter
Board of Directors
Jim Gray, Chairman
Craig Pfiefle, Vice-Chairman
Jack Kaup, Secretary/Treasurer
Brian Barnes
Emily Hendry
Sheila Jackson
Scott McDonald
Aron Martz
Mary Ann Moylan
Christy Baumiller
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