Becoming an Advocate

How can I become a CASA?

There is no special education, work or other experience required to become a CASA -- all you need is a desire to help children!  To be accepted into the training program, you must:

• Be at least 21 years of age
• Complete an application and participate in an interview
• Provide at least three references
• Complete approximately 35 hours of training, including court observation
• Pass DCFS and general criminal background checks
• Be willing to commit to the program for 24 months

Applications are accepted and training sessions are held at the discretion of CASA based upon current volunteer needs. Typically, we have an evening session in the fall and a day session in the spring.

Click here for the Advocate Role Description

2025 Spring Pre-Service Training Dates and Requirements

Dates - must attend all classes:

• Thursday, April 10, 2025                                    9:00 - 11:30 am in person
• Thursday April 24 or Friday, April 25, 2025   Small group Zoom sessions 9 - 11:00 am
• Friday May 2, 2025                                            9:00 am - 2:30 pm in person
• Thursday May 8, 2025                                       9:00 - 11:00 am in person

In addition to the scheduled classes, completion of approximately 18-20 hours of online courses/homework is required.

In-person sessions will be held at the DuPage County Complex, 505 N. County Farm, Wheaton, IL. 

Attendance at ONE court observation date is required.

Tentative dates for court observation are:

• Tuesday April 22, 2025:  8:30 - 11:30 am
• Tuesday, April 29, 2025: 8:30 - 11:30 am
• Tuesday, May 6, 2025:     8:30 - 11:30 am 

Completion of a DCFS Background Check is required.

To complete the online application, click here.

Interviews will be scheduled beginning February 3, 2025.

Class size will be determined at CASA’s discretion based upon current needs.

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