What is a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)?

A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) is a trained community volunteer that is appointed by the court as Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) to advocate for the best interests of children affected by abuse and neglect. CASAs are everyday people – teachers, business people, retirees, stay-at-home parents, and grandparents – who are committed to making a difference for children and families.

What does a CASA volunteer do?

CASAs are appointed by judges to guide one child or one set of siblings through the child welfare system to safe, permanent homes as quickly as possible. Denton County CASAs serve as Guardian Ad Litem (GAL), which means they are authorized by Texas law to conduct independent investigations and have certain rights and responsibilities in order to do so. CASA volunteers get to know the child, parents, and family in order to provide valuable information to the judge and others involved in the case to help ensure the child’s best interest is being met. They do that by researching and speaking to each person involved in a child’s life, including family members, teachers, doctors, lawyers, and social workers. They monitor the progress of the child and family throughout the case and advocate for the child’s current and future needs in court, in school, and in agency meetings. Their independent evaluations allow the court to make better-informed decisions. Each volunteer is paired with a staff Casework Supervisor who provides continued, one-on-one guidance and support to the advocate as he/she works a case.

CASAs are expected to make a minimum 18-month commitment to each case, with an average of 12-15 hours of time commitment each month for the duration of the case. They must also be able to keep information confidential and work within established program guidelines. CASAs must be 21 years old or older, and pass a thorough background check process.

Why CASA volunteers Matter

For many children in foster care, a CASA volunteer may be the only consistent adult presence during a very turbulent time. Social workers, attorneys, and foster placements may change, but CASAs remain committed to staying with the child until the case is resolved. This stability is essential for children who often feel voiceless in the system.

Children who have a CASA are more likely to succeed in school, receive more services, and spend less time in foster care compared to those without an advocate. Judges often say CASA volunteers are their “eyes and ears” because they provide unique insights into a child’s life and well-being.

Benefits of Volunteering as a CASA

Becoming a CASA is not only impactful for children, but also deeply rewarding for the volunteers themselves. Many describe the experience as life-changing. Volunteers develop advocacy skills, build lasting relationships, and contribute meaningfully to their community.

For those interested in volunteering to help children in Denton County, CASA offers an incredible opportunity to get involved. By committing time and compassion, volunteers can directly influence a child’s future and support families navigating difficult circumstances.

5 Steps to Become a CASA:

Attend a one-hour Info Session (virtual or in person) – Click here to see dates and register
Submit an application along with required materials – application will be emailed to you after Info Session
Complete an interview with CASA of Denton County staff – we will email you to schedule this
Complete the 30+hour Advocacy Academy training
Attend Swearing In Ceremony where you will be sworn in by a judge as a CASA!

*CASA advocates must be at least 21 years of age and successfully pass screening as well as criminal and CPS background checks.