Questions

What is CASA of El Paso?
CASA of El Paso recruits, trains and supervises volunteers to speak on behalf of abused and neglected children in foster care. CASA is part of a nationwide organization of Court Appointed Special Advocates with 920 chapters in 50 states, and 70,000 volunteers.
What is a CASA?
A CASA is appointed by a judge to be an independent voice in court for an abused or neglected child.
Is there a typical CASA?
CASAs come from all walks of life, representing a variety of ethnic, educational and socioeconomic backgrounds. Approximately two-thirds of our CASAs are employed full-time, some are college students and some are retired. What they have in common is the belief that children deserve a safe permanent home. CASAs must be at least 21 years of age and pass a background check. They also must have a valid driver's license, proof of automobile insurance, reliable transportation and the ability to be both compassionate and objective.
How much time does being an CASA take?
Each case is different , of course; but most cases require going to court 2 or 3 times during each six month period to present a report with recommendations to the judge. More time is spent on a case when it is first assigned, as this is the more intensive fact-finding stage.
How do the legal system and child welfare system view CASA?
CASA has been endorsed by the American Bar Association, the National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges, and the Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention of U.S. Department of Justice. CASA is described as 'the eyes and ears of the judge', and frequently acts as 'the arms and legs' of an overworked child protective system.
Which children are assigned CASAs?
Children who have been abused and neglected and have become wards of the court are assigned a CASA. Our goal is to provide a CASA to every child who needs one.
Are there any other agencies or groups that provide the same service?
No. There are other child advocacy organizations, but CASA is the only program where volunteers are appointed by the court to represent a child's best interests.
Where does CASA recieve its financial support?
We rely on grants and donations from foundation, corporations and individuals.
What training does a CASA receive?
CASA of El Paso conducts 6 training sessions a year. The 35 hour training session provides CASAs with an overview of courtroom procedure and court report writing. CASA are educated about specific topics ranging from symptoms and effects of abuse and neglect to early childhood development and cultural diversity.

CASA of El Paso

500 E. San Antonio St., Suite 312 El Paso Texas 79901

Phone: (915) 546-8146 x 6

Fax: (915) 546-8149