FLAGSTAFF, Ariz. — Coconino County’s Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Program is urgently seeking applications from interested residents to volunteer to make a difference in the lives of children in our County.
CASA volunteers are appointed by County judges to advocate for abused and neglected children. They help guide them and protect their rights as they move through the court system towards a safe and stable permanent plan. Volunteers collect information, attend court hearings, and stay with each child’s case until it is closed.
CASA is recruiting volunteers with a wide range of lived experiences and backgrounds who are looking for a rewarding opportunity to help children who need support from a caring adult.
“Our CASA Volunteers represent the best interests of children that have been removed from their family’s home due to abuse or neglect,” said Jillian Schuldt, Dependency Program Manager of Coconino County Juvenile Court. “For many abused children, their CASA Volunteer will be the one constant adult presence in their lives. We are seeking stable, reliable members of our community to stand up for the most vulnerable among us.”
Applicants must be full-time residents of Coconino County, 21 years of age with no criminal record. Volunteers must also pass a polygraph test and attend 30 hours of training provided by the County. The time commitment is estimated to be 10-20 hours per month, with flexibility to attend multiple court hearings, however the ideal candidates will be those with a willingness to commit to children who deserve an ally on their side.
The application process begins online at https://www.azcourts.gov/casaofcoconinocounty/Apply-Now, any general inquiries about the CASA program and experience can be directed to CASA staff at (928) 226-5420.