Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) of Middlesex County is recruiting volunteers for its spring training program to help advocate for children in foster care.
The organization is particularly in need of bilingual, Spanish-speaking advocates to support children facing increased risks due to potential deportations.
“Several Spanish-speaking children are currently waiting for an advocate, and more may need support in the coming months with the possible increase in deportations,” CASA said in a statement.
When parents are detained or deported and no caregivers are identified, children can be placed in the child welfare system.
CASA volunteers work with children by spending time with them and communicating with individuals involved in their lives, such as teachers, doctors, and family members.
Based on these interactions, the advocates make recommendations to the family court to ensure decisions are made in the best interest of the child regarding services, education, and other critical areas.
CASA said its goal is for its volunteers to reflect the diverse population of children in the foster care system. Volunteers receive training and support from the organization, and no prior experience is necessary.
Applicants must be at least 21 years old and pass a background check. Volunteers are expected to meet with their assigned child once a month and commit to the duration of one case, which averages 18 months.
CASA’s spring training cohort is set to begin on April 23, 2025.
Those interested in volunteering can apply online at casaofmiddlesexcounty.org/volunteer/application.html.
For more information, contact Lauren at Lauren@casaofmiddlesexcounty.org or call (732) 246-4449 ext. 6.
CASA of Middlesex County is a nonprofit organization that advocates for the needs of children in foster care through the efforts of trained volunteers assigned to individual children or sibling groups.
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