Cass County CASA
120 North Broadway, Suite 215
Cassopolis, Michigan 49031
269 445-4431
Director: Jim Ward

CASA is an acronym for Court Appointed Special Advocate.

A CASA Volunteer is appointed by the Family Court Judge to provide factual, independent and objective information regarding the status of children involved in child protective Proceedings. The CASA Volunteer complements the duties of other professionals involved in neglect and abuse cases. Other professionals include, but are not limited to, the Court, protective service workers, foster care workers, prosecuting attorneys, the lawyer-guardian ad litem, attorneys for the respondent parents, and therapists/counselors.

The specific role of a CASA Volunteer is to:

• Investigate - Carry out an objective, systematic examination of the relevant history, environment, relationships and needs of the child
• Facilitate - Identify and recommend resources and services for the child and facilitate a collaborative relationship between all parties to the case, helping to create a situation in which the child's needs are met.
• Advocate - To speak for and plead the case of the child to the court,
• Monitor - Keep track of whether the orders of the Court and plans of Child Protective Services are carried out and report to Child Protective Services and/or report to the Court when any parties do not carry out those plans and orders.

Responsibility. The mandate of the CASA Volunteer is to assist the Court in assuring that the best interests of the child are being served.

Adapted from the Memorandum of Understanding between (Michigan) Cass County CASA; the Family Court of Cass County; and the Family Independence Agency of Cass County. February, 2003

CASAnet
National CASA Home Page
Volunteer Voice

Foster Parent Resources

Cass County CASA Monthly Report Form

Updated August 4, 2008