Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)

Court Appointed Special Advocates or CASAs serve as a voice for Delaware’s abused and neglected children. We provide quality representation for children who have experienced abuse and neglect. The CASA Delaware Program began in New Castle County in 1981 and expanded statewide by 1983. Today, CASA Delaware has over 200 volunteer CASAs help Delaware’s children every day. 54% of children currently experiencing foster care have a CASA volunteer, but our goal is for EVERY child to have a CASA.

The National CASA/GAL Association, together with state and local member programs, supports and promotes court-appointed volunteer advocacy so every child who has experienced abuse or neglect can be safe, have a permanent home, and the opportunity to thrive. To learn more about The National CASA Association, visit the National CASA GAL website.

Our mission is to serve as a voice for Delaware’s abused and neglected children through skilled volunteers, community collaboration, and quality representation instilling a need for safe and permanent relationships that will build healthy and resilient children.

CASA FAQs

Why do we need CASAs?

Answer: The Division of Family Services receives over 21,000 reports of suspected child abuse or neglect each year. On average, a child will spend nearly a year in foster care and each child will change homes an average of 5 times.

Is the CASA program effective?

Answer: A child with a CASA volunteer is half as likely to re-enter the foster-care system. Children are also more likely to succeed in school and less likely to spend 3+ years in the foster-care system.

What does a CASA do?

Answer: CASAs work with the CASA Coordinator and the child’s attorney to advocate for the best interest of the child. CASAs conduct monthly visits with the child and conduct an investigation to gather information about the child and their needs. They also work closely with families, community connections, Division of Family Services, schools, mental health providers, medical professionals, and many more to ensure the child’s needs are met. CASAs use this information to make recommendations to the Court about the child’s case and advocates to ensure the child receives necessary services. Read the full CASA job description

How do I become a CASA?

Answer: Fill out our online application and send your completed Child Protection Registry Consent form and Family Court Records form to CASAprogram@delaware.gov. Then, you will complete an interview with a CASA staff member and complete your background check. CASAs also complete 30 hours of training with staff members before being sworn in by a judge.

What is the training required to be a CASA?

Answer: CASAs complete 15 hours of online training and 15 hours of in-the-seat (live) training. In-the-seat training consists of a weekly 3-hour section over 5 consecutive weeks. After the initial training, CASAs are required to complete 12 hours of annual training.

Volunteer Application

Online Application (Please be advised that it will take up to 15-30 minutes to complete)
When applying online, please read the below CASA job description and complete the Child Protection Registry Consent form and Family Court Consent form and email both forms to CASAProgram@Delaware.gov. Please download the documents to complete.

CASA In-Service Training Calendar
If you have any questions regarding applying to be a CASA please call 302-255-1730 or email us at CASAProgram@Delaware.gov, and we would be happy to speak with you.