Make a Difference in a Child’s Life – Become a CASA Volunteer
At CASA of Scotts Bluff County, volunteers advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer appointed by a judge to represent a child’s best interests in the juvenile court system and ensure their voice is heard.
CASA volunteers spend time getting to know the child they serve while gathering information and making recommendations to the court about what will best support the child’s safety, stability, and future.
No special background is required – just a heart for helping children and a commitment to their well-being.
How the Application Process Works
- Submit an application – Scroll to the bottom to download and complete our application. Then email: volunteercoordinator@casaofscbcounty.com or drop off at 2035 10th Street in Gering, NE.
- Interview – Our staff will schedule a conversation to get to know you and answer your questions.
- Training – Complete 30 hours of instruction (15 hours self-paced + 15 hours in-person) covering advocacy, the court system, and trauma-informed support.
- Court Observation – Tour the courthouse and attend a juvenile court hearing with our Volunteer Coordinator to help familiarize you with the court process and prepare you for your role.
- Swearing-In Ceremony – A judge officially appoints you as a CASA volunteer. Friends and family are welcome to attend.
- Case Assignment – Our Volunteer Coordinator will match you with a child or sibling group, and you’ll begin advocating for their best interests.
What Volunteers Do
- Build a supportive relationship with the child by spending time with them and getting to know their needs, strengths, and interests.
- Gather information from family, teachers, doctors, attorneys, and caseworkers.
- Review records and prepare written reports for the court.
- Advocate for safe, permanent, and supportive placements.
Cases may involve abuse, neglect, domestic violence, substance use, sexual abuse, or trafficking.
Training & Support
- Initial 30-hour training (15 hours self-paced + 15 hours in-person)
- 12 hours of continuing education per year
- Ongoing support from CASA program staff
Time Commitment
- 6- 10 hours per month
- Commitment lasts until the case closes, typically 1-2 years
Volunteer Qualifications
- At least 21 years old
- Pass a background check
- Have a valid ID, phone, e-mail, and permanent address
- Be reliable, objective, and maintain confidentiality
- Have effective communication skills
What Makes a Great Volunteer?
CASA volunteers come from all walks of life. The most important qualities are commitment to children and a willingness to listen and learn.
Great CASA volunteers are:
- Compassionate and patient
- Good listeners and communicators
- Reliable and able to follow through on commitments
- Comfortable working with people from different backgrounds
- Passionate about helping children have safe, stable futures
You don’t need special experience – our training and staff support will prepare you for the role.
Questions?
Contact our Volunteer Coordinator, Courtney Gleim, at volunteercoordinator@casaofscbcounty.com or (308) 672-3554 if you have questions about becoming a CASA volunteer.
Ready to get started?
Print and complete the application below and return it by email or drop it off at our office.