Thirteen future Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA Volunteers) completed their pre-service training on Saturday, November 23. These volunteers participated in an intensive 36 hour training which addressed a wide range of topics, including: the laws that govern abuse and neglect cases; the various dynamics that contribute to abuse and neglect, such as mental illness or substance abuse; child development; and the impact of trauma on children. Volunteers also received training on the communication and interview process, so that they may work as part of a team, along with the social worker and the Guardian ad litem, to advocate for the child.
The pre-service training prepares CASA volunteers to advocate for children in all types of situations, and to tailor their advocacy efforts to the needs of the particular child or children on the case.
This particular cohort included three men and ten women, all of whom will be sworn into service in time to receive their first cases in early 2014. Check back in the coming weeks for more details and photos of the Swearing In Ceremony!
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Picture: Clifton resident Dana is one of 13 citizens who completed Fairfax CASA training in November.
