Washington CASA Association partners with eight CASA/GAL programs, in nine counties, across the state of Washington. Volunteers provide a voice to children experiencing neglect and abuse. You can help a child experience safety, permanency, and the opportunity to thrive. 

Interested in becoming a CASA volunteer?   CASAs (Court Appointed Special Advocates) and GALs (guardian ad litem) are volunteers and ordinary citizens doing extraordinary work. CASA/GAL volunteers establish stable relationships with foster children, getting to know their unique history and making informed recommendations to the courts based on the best interests for the children.

Contact your local program   Each local program is unique and may or may not have the same process.  With that said, contact your local program to make a date to attend an information session. Your local program might interview you in person and ask you to fill out an application in person or prior to meeting. You will also be asked for 3 references to guarantee that you are a person of character, competence, and reliability.

Complete a background check   CASA/GAL volunteers undergo a thorough background check that includes fingerprinting to ensure that our children are in good hands. Advocates cannot have a record of certain criminal offenses, like child abuse, neglect, or any sexual offenses.

Complete the required training  All volunteers must complete an initial training of at least 30 hours. This training prepares you to be a strong advocate and covers legally mandated topics. You’ll learn about the dynamics of child abuse and juvenile law and court structure.

Take your oath before the judge  That’s it! You’ve become a sworn advocate. Now you are ready to be appointed to a child who desperately needs your help.