The Court Appointed Special Advocates Program is affiliated with, and under the direction of, the Guernsey County Court of Common Pleas, Juvenile Division.

     Its Mission is to speak for the best interests of the abused, neglected, and dependent children in the courtroom.

     The Agency promotes and supports quality volunteer advocacy for children to provide each child with a safe, permanent, nurturing home.

     The Volunteers serve as a fact finder for the Court by completely researching the background of child abuse, neglect and dependent cases.

     They speak for the child in the courtroom, focusing exclusively on the child’s best interests.  A CASA Volunteer provides carefully researched information to help the Judge make decisions.

     The Volunteers continue to monitor the child during the life of the case, helping to ensure that he or she will be raised in the best possible environment.

     Among the requirements to become a CASA Volunteer include:

  • Must pass a criminal background investigation.
  • Must be 21 years of age or older.
  • Complete a face to face interview with the CASA Program Director.
  • Pass all requirements.
  • Complete 40-hours of training.

     The local CASA Program was established through the Guernsey County Juvenile Court in 1991.

     For more information, and for those that may be interested in becoming a CASA Volunteer, contact Guernsey County CASA Director, Kayla Higgins, at 740-432-5697 or casadirector@guernseycounty.org.