Become a voice for a child who needs one; info session March 30

Boston Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) is looking for volunteers to advocate on behalf of children who have experienced abuse or neglect in the child welfare and foster care systems in Suffolk and Middlesex Counties. No special professional background is required.

Today only 15% of eligible foster youth have access to a CASA — a trained, court-appointed volunteer who provides consistent, one-on-one support and helps shape critical legal and life decisions, according to Boston CASA.

“Imagine facing judges, rotating caseworkers and endless transitions as a child without one adult focused solely on what’s best for you,” said Nicole Stewart, Executive Director of Boston CASA and a former foster youth. “That’s what foster youth experience. A CASA changes that equation. We’re looking for volunteers prepared to show up consistently, advocate fiercely, and be the person a child can count on.”

CASAs are appointed by a judge to focus solely on the best interests of a child in foster care. Each CASA is matched with one child or sibling group and builds a consistent, trusted relationship by meeting with them regularly and staying involved for the duration of the case. They collaborate with teachers, doctors, foster parents, attorneys, and caseworkers to ensure the child’s needs are met.

Daralyn Perry, an insurance company owner and Waltham resident of 28 years, is one such volunteer. She was profiled in September and said her work  advocating for foster youths and staying involved as a resource makes a difference.

Attending an information session is the first step in becoming a CASA. The sessions provide an overview of Boston CASA, the application and interview process and additional requirements.

Sessions are held virtually on Zoom. The next two will be:

• Monday, March 30, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.
• Thursday, April 23, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m.

After attending an info session, potential volunteers apply for the position and, if accepted, take part in 35 hours of training before being appointed to a case.

Each volunteer is supported by a professional supervisor from Boston CASA.

Sign up for an info session here. For more information on the volunteer program, visit: https://bostoncasa.org/