Volunteer Form Available at the Bottom of This Page.
Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)/Guardian Ad Litem (GAL)
There are instances when a child needs to have representation in the court system. The Anaconda Family Resource Centers CASA program provides Guardian Ad Litem’s for the youngest of our clientele. The Guardian Ad Litem’s role is to provide advocacy services (in the court system) for abused, neglected and/or abandoned children. As can be expected, these services require a lot of time. Guardian Ad Litem’s are pro bono and their role includes investigating the case, attending meetings pertinent to the children, and providing input to and monitoring of the parents’ treatment plan.
If you are interested in becoming a GAL volunteer, please fill out the form below.
The second oldest program of its kind in the state, the 3rd Judicial District CASA/GAL program is responsible for recruiting, training and supervising volunteers who act as court appointed child advocates in cases of abuse and neglect. By acting as court appointed advocates for children who have been removed from their homes, GAL volunteers act as the voice of the child—contributing to important decisions regarding the services and placement for the child. After speaking with the child, parents, family members, social workers, and others familiar with the child’s situation, GAL volunteers are able to prepare recommendations for the Judge regarding what action is in the best interest of the child.
About CASA/GAL
About Our Volunteers
GAL volunteer advocates undergo over 30 hours of training before being sworn in as court advocates. They are required to attend 12 hours of continuing education training every year. Their volunteer position is time and labor intensive. However, the effect that they have on the lives of vulnerable local children is immeasurable. Over the years GAL volunteer efforts in court, behind the scenes and directly with children have been instrumental in the placement of hundreds of abused children in to permanent, loving homes.