About Mentor Advocates for CASA of Ulster County

Children in foster care experience many disruptions. Often, they don't lose just their home. They lose their friends and their school. Most children in foster care have more than one "placement," which means the loss happens all over again. These children need the connection and caring of that one special adult who will be there for them, no matter what else changes around them.

The CASA volunteer’s role is to promote the best interests of the child. That may not always be what the child wants. CASA volunteers are particularly valuable to the Courts because they must be able to remain objective while gathering information from everyone involved in a child’s life.Applicants to the CASA program are carefully screened and then provided in-depth training on issues including the Family Court system; the child welfare system; family dynamics; the special needs of abused and neglected children; cultural awareness; as well as advocacy and interviewing techniques. Applicants must complete the thirty hour classroom training, as well as six hours of observations in the Family Courts.

Applicants to the CASA program are carefully screened and then provided in-depth training on issues including the Family Court system; the child welfare system; family dynamics; the special needs of abused and neglected children; cultural awareness; as well as advocacy and interviewing techniques. Applicants must complete the thirty hour classroom training, as well as six hours of observations in the Family Courts. Volunteers are required to participate in at least 12 hours of in-service training that is provided throughout the year. Staff is available to discuss your case, offer guidance and make sure you get the support you need.

CASA volunteers are ordinary people who care about children. They come from all walks of life, with a variety of professional, educational, and ethnic backgrounds. Some work full time, some part time; some are students; some retired; some do not work outside the home. No particular education or work experience is required.

Application Process

Call (845) 339-7543 or email our office [email protected] for more information. You can also visit our web site: www.casaulster.org