Frequently Asked Questions

What is CASA of NH, Inc.?
CASA of NH is the private, nonprofit organization whose volunteers advocate in New Hampshire's courts for the best interests of abused and neglected children, so they can grow up in safe, permanent homes.

What is a CASA/Guardian ad Litem Volunteer?
A Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer is a trained citizen appointed as the Guardian ad Litem (GAL) by the District or Family Court judge to represent a child victim in cases of abuse and neglect.

What is a CASA volunteer's role?
A CASA/GAL's role in abuse and neglect proceedings is to present the court with a unique "child-centered" perspective regarding what is in the best interest of the child.

How long does a CASA/GAL volunteer remain involved with a case?
CASA volunteers are asked to make a commitment to stay with each case they assume until the case closes -- typically, around 24 months.

How many children does CASA of NH serve?
On any given day, CASA of NH represents approximately 1,000 victimized children. Since 1989, CASA of NH has served over 5,600 children in District and Family Courts.

What training does a CASA volunteer receive?
Each CASA/GAL volunteer must complete a comprehensive 40-hour pre-service training. The curriculum is designed to inform volunteers about courtroom procedures, the dynamics of abuse and neglect, cultural differences and effective advocacy techniques. Professionals from social service agencies, lawyers and judges participate with the CASA staff to share their expertise. Ongoing training, workshops, and support groups keep CASA/GALs well-informed.

Is there a "typical" CASA volunteer?
CASA of NH volunteers come from all walks of life with a variety of professional, educational, and ethnic backgrounds. There are 400 CASA of NH volunteers who include computer technicians, retired executives, writers and editors, students and educators, air traffic controllers, realtors, health care professionals, mothers, fathers, and grandparents.

How much time does it require?
CASA/GALs spend about 10 to 15 hours per month on each case. However, cases that are more complex may require more time researching and conducting interviews with involved parities.

How many cases on the average does a CASA volunteer carry at a time?
The average caseload for each CASA advocate is one or two.

How does a CASA research the case?
To prepare their recommendations for the court, CASA volunteers talk regularly with the parents and other family members, social workers, school officials, healthcare providers, and all others involved in the child's life. Most importantly, CASA/GALs visit with the child(ren) at least once each month in order to gain a full understanding of the situation.

How does the CASA volunteer relate to the child he or she represents?
CASA volunteers offer children a source of stability and trust during complex legal proceedings. They often explain to the child the meaning of the events and the role of all the involved parties. While remaining objective, CASA volunteers also encourage the child to express his or her own opinions, feelings, and dreams.

How effective is the CASA of NH program?
Judges throughout New Hampshire have noted the value of the information that CASA brings to the proceedings and are appreciative of the unique and unbiased perspective presented by CASA/GALs. In addition, national studies show that a child who has been assigned a CASA/GAL spends less time in court and less time in foster care than those who do not have CASA representation.

How is CASA of NH funded?
As a private nonprofit, CASA of NH relies on a diverse revenue base. Thirty to forty percent of our operating budget is from state and federal funding, with the balance from individual and corporate contributions, private grant monies, and revenue from CASA fundraising efforts.

How many staff members work for the organization?
There are 20 staff members: President/CEO, Senior Staff Attorney, Program Assistant, Recruiting and Training Coordinator, Director of Development, (2) Senior CASA/GAL Supervisors, (10) CASA/GAL Supervisors, Office Assistant, Technology Coordinator, and Bookkeeper.

Are there other ways to help CASA besides being a CASA/GAL?
Yes! Being a CASA/GAL is not possible for everyone. CASA of NH also seeks individuals who wish to help underwrite the program, special events or projects with their donations (monetary and in-kind); who wish to assist on committees or in the office; and who are willing to tell others about our mission and vision. In addition, an auxiliary organization called Friends of CASA is in the formation stage and provides many volunteer possibilities for those interested in becoming more actively involved with the organization.

How do I get more information on becoming a CASA/GAL volunteer?
Contact us at one of our New Hampshire offices or request information by e-mail by clicking this link.