Who is a CASA?

Court Appointed Special Advocates are community volunteers trained to represent the best interests of children who are part of the court system due to abuse or neglect. As a CASA, you can make a huge difference in a child’s life during this uncertain time.

Advocates are assigned their first case after 30 hours of training. This training consists of class time, reading, courtroom observation, and shadowing a seasoned volunteer on a visit. Once training is completed, advocates have the support of the CASA staff.

CASAs average 5-7 hours a month on their cases. They must be available to attend court hearings approximately once every three months and team meetings approximately once a month. CASAs are also required to complete at least 12 hours of in-service training per year.

Mission Statement

The Mission of Dubois County CASA is to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children within the Circuit Court System. Based on the belief that children are entitled to a safe and permanent home, CASA works in the court system through trained community volunteers, in collaboration with key agencies, legal counsel and community resources to serve as the child’s advocate and represent the child in juvenile court.  The CASA Program is an inclusive organization whose governing body members, employees, and volunteers reflect the diversity of the children they serve.

CASA Testimonials

"Being a CASA Volunteer has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I hope that by giving our children a voice, in some of the most difficult times in their lives , it shows them that we care, we listen and they matter." -April Foll - CASA

"One of the most difficult things I have ever done is serve as a CASA but it is also one of the most rewarding. Children are our future and I hope by being their voice in difficult situations, they realize how important they are to us and life can be better for them and their family."  Kim Wampler - CASA
 

What is the process to become a volunteer?

1. Click on Apply Now below and complete the application. You will need the email addresses of 3 references who are not family.  It is a good idea to have those ready before starting the application.
2. Once your application is submitted, the Director will contact you to set up a personal interview.
3.  You will join other potential CASA volunteers in a training class.  This class will be held twice a week for four weeks.  This training will also include courtroom observation and shadowing a seasoned volunteer.
4. Once sworn in as an advocate, you will receive your first case and will have the support of your supervisor and other seasoned volunteers.
For more information call 812.639.0143

Apply Now

You can help provide funding for the program both now and in the future by making a tax-deductible gift to the Dubois County CASA endowment through the Dubois County Community Foundation.  
Please consider remembering the CASA endowment in your estate planning.  

Leadership Team

            Deena Hubler, Director                     adhubler@duboiscountyin.org                812.639.0143 
       Natosha Messmer, Supervisor          nbmessmer@duboiscountyin.org           812.631.2458
         Aubree Arvin, Supervisor                  aarvin@duboiscountyin.org                    812.639.4854