Being the voice of a child in court can sound daunting at first, but the Cass Elias McCarter Guardian ad Litem program will make sure that you feel prepared and supported every step of the way.
 
We provide a required training course that takes approximately 30 hours to complete and uses a curriculum approved by National CASA.  The interactive classes are offered virtually and use a combination of activities, videos, group discussions, and case to studies to prepare volunteers for this important work.  Topics covered include:
 
    •    Cultural awareness and understanding different family structures
    •    Conducting visits with children
    •    Resources available to help families and children
    •    Writing court reports
    •    Observing real cases in your county family court
    •    Personal safety
 
Classes meet twice per week for three hours per session for a total of eight sessions.  Both morning (9 am – 12 pm) and evening (5:30 – 8:30 pm) options are available.  Homework and family court observation are completed outside of these times.