Frequently Asked Questions

What children are appointed a CASA Volunteer?

Children whose cases are in Milwaukee's Children’s Court and are under a CHIPS (Children In Protective Services) order. These children are usually victims of abuse or neglect.

Who can be a Kids Matter CASA?

CASA volunteers come from all walks of life with a variety of professional, educational and ethnic backgrounds. No special background is required, just an ability to be objective and committed.

What does a Kids Matter CASA do to investigate a case?

The CASA volunteer gathers information by talking to the child, family, case managers, teachers, attorneys and others who are involved in the child’s life.

What happens with this information?

A recommendation is made in a court report that is written when a court hearing is scheduled. This court report is independent of the case manager’s and attorney’s reports and is often read first by the judge.

How long does a case last?

A CASA volunteer will remain on a case until permanency is reached. On the average, the length of a case is a year.

What training do I need?

Volunteers are required to go through a thirty-two hour training over several sessions. This training covers the roles and responsibilities of a CASA volunteer, the history and laws of child abuse, cultural awareness, and understanding families and children. A court observation is also required. At the end of the training, there is a swearing-in ceremony.

Who helps me?

You will be assigned to one of our Kids Matter Volunteer Coordinator who will supervise your case. The supervisor is there to support the volunteer by answering questions, helping write court reports and providing guidance.

How can I do this if I work full time?

Many of our volunteers work full time. They make phone calls on lunch hours and after work. While we encourage our volunteers to attend court hearings, supervisors can go in their place.