What is a CASA Advocate?
Becoming an Advocate
Other Ways to Help

“As a foster child you don't know the face of consistency - because everything is always changing. My CASA Volunteer was the only thing that didn't change... She was the only consistent face I saw and she remains in my life to this day.”
Former foster youth

Becoming an Advocate

How can I become a CASA?

Thank you for your interest in the Advocate Training Program.  To be accepted into the training program, you must complete an application and participate in an interview.  In order to become a CASA, you must complete approximately 30 hours of training and court observation, and pass a DCFS background check. Training sessions are held at the discretion of CASA based upon current volunteer needs.

For the Advocate Role Description, click here.

Applications

The application period for the fall training session has closed.  Our next session will be in March. If you would like to be considered for future training sessions, please join our email list here and we will keep you apprised when the dates are scheduled and the application process is open.

Fall Training Schedule

Please note that the training session will include 5 required in-person classes, and will also require the completion of online courses and one court observation date.  The dates for the in-person classes are:

Thursday, September 8, 2022:             6:00 – 8:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 15, 2022:           6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 22, 2022:           6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, September 29, 2022:           6:00 – 9:00 p.m.

Thursday, October 6, 2022:                 6:00 – 8:30 p.m.

Court Observation dates are September 20, 2022, September 27, 2022 or October 4, 2022, from 8:30 - 11:30 am. Attendance at one court observation date is required.

Training Sessions will be held in person at the Jack T. Knuepfer Bldg. located at 421 N. County Farm Road, Wheaton, IL.

Please note that you must be able to attend all the scheduled training dates and complete online courses/homework as assigned, as well as complete and pass a DCFS background check.

Further questions about becoming an advocate can be directed to Kathie Paravola, Program Director, at kathiep@dupagecasa.org

General Advocate Pre-Service Training Requirements

• Attendance at all training session classes
• Completion of approximately 10 hours of online courses/homework
• Attendance at ONE court observation date
• Completion of DCFS Background Check
• Payment of $50.00 training fee