Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates

Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children in the child welfare system by providing them with trained volunteer advocates. The organization operates as part of the broader Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) network, which aims to ensure that the needs of children involved in cases of abuse, neglect, or within the juvenile justice system are represented and met.

Overview

As a CASA program, Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates works to secure permanent placements for children, ensuring they are placed in safe and stable environments. The organization is governed by a local board of directors and must adhere to standards set by the relevant state judicial administration, such as those in Kansas, which involve annual reviews to ensure compliance with these standards[1][3].

Roles of CASA Volunteers

CASA volunteers are appointed by judges to act in the best interests of children within the court system. Their responsibilities include:

• Investigation: Volunteers investigate the circumstances affecting a child's welfare.
• Visitation: Regular visits are made to monitor the child's safety and well-being.
• Court Participation: Volunteers attend court hearings and may participate in meetings with professionals involved in the child's case.
• Reporting: They submit written reports to the court prior to scheduled hearings.
• Case Planning: Volunteers participate in developing or modifying plans for the child's return to their family or alternative permanent placement[1][3][5].

Qualifications for CASA Volunteers

To become a volunteer, individuals must:

• Be at least 21 years old.
• Complete a minimum of 30 hours of specialized training.
• Submit a written application detailing their background and experience.
• Pass background checks.
• Participate in a personal interview and provide references from unrelated individuals[1][3].

Central Kansas Court Appointed Special Advocates contributes to the well-being of children in need by providing them with dedicated advocates who focus on their best interests and work to ensure their safety and stability.