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Steps to Become a CASA

Become a CASA

“My journey as a CASA Advocate started out as a way to serve my community but ended in a beautiful friendship. I never thought giving back could be so rewarding.

I now find my CASA youth looking toward her future with optimism.

She needed one adult to believe in her.”
– Allison, CASA Volunteer


  • Step one: Attend an Information Meeting

    Information meetings are your chance to learn more about what it takes to be a volunteer and ask questions. Information Meetings are being done via Zoom or in person. View dates and sign up to attend by Clicking Here.

  • Step Two: Pre-training Interview with staff

    You will receive the Volunteer Application at your information meeting. Currently, all pre-training interviews are being done via Zoom or in person. You will meet virtually with one of our CASA Advocate Supervisors and share insight about who you are.

  • Step Three: Submit Screening Paperwork

    You will receive a welcome email from our Outreach and Recruitment Manager with training information and instructions.

  • Step Four: 35-Hour Advocate Training

    Training is being done In-person and through zoom.
    NOTE: You must attend an information meeting and pre-training interview before receiving your invitation to join training. CASA offers four trainings per year; Click Here to View Current Training Schedule. Trainings take place at various locations throughout the county.

  • Step Five: Advocate Graduation

    Includes Dependency Court Observation & Swearing-In. This takes place on a scheduled Tuesday morning at the Watsonville Courthouse.

  • Step Six: Post training interview and Child Matching

    CASA’s professional staff offers each new Advocate several potential children from which to choose. The new Advocate is matched with a child/youth he or she would like to serve. An Advocate Supervisor is assigned to the new CASA Advocate for ongoing support while he is supporting child or youth.

  • Step Seven: Judge signs Order of Assignment
  • Step Eight: Meet Advocate Supervisor & Begin Advocacy

Want more info? Call our Outreach & Recruitment Manager, Clarita Cortes at (831) 761-2956 Ext. 102 or email at clarita@casaofsantacruz.org

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