Volunteer with Children in Foster Care!

Mission Statement:
Approximately 2,500 cases of abuse and neglect among foster children are currently in the DC Family Court system. 1,500 new cases of abuse and neglect appear each year. CASA DC's goal is to recruit and train volunteers to serve every one of these children through two volunteer programs: CASA advocacy and a B.U.D.D.Y. mentoring.

Description:
CASA Volunteers are trained to advocate for children in cases of abuse and neglect in the District of Columbia Family Court System. They represent one family at a time, with approximately 1-3 children ranging in age from birth to 21 years and residing in the District of Columbia or Maryland. CASAs gather information about each child's situation, submit reports to the court, make recommendations in the best interest of the child and provide the court with valuable insight into the child's life.

B.U.D.D.Y. Mentors are matched with a foster youth ranging in age from 6 to 21 years and residing in DC, Maryland or Virginia. Mentors focus on building the youth's self esteem and preparing them with the life skills they need to lead positive and healthy lives.

Program Requirements

Volunteers:

* Are at least 21 years or age;
* Can commit to one year of service;
* Consent to a criminal and reference background check;
* Participate in free training.

Activities you can do with your child or youth include:

* Cultural, arts and recreational activities;
* Self-esteem building;
* Workforce development;
* Academic enhancement;
* College preparation;
* Life-skills training;
* Attending court hearings.

Contact Raquel Halsey at rhalsey@casadc.org or 202-887-0007 extension 101 to get started today!