Do CASA/GAL volunteers receive training?
Yes, CASA/GAL volunteers receive thorough training! The pre-service training takes a minimum of 30 hours. Through this training volunteers learn about courtroom procedure from those in the profession—judges, lawyers, social workers and court personnel. Volunteers also learn effective advocacy techniques for children and are educated about specific topics ranging from child sexual abuse to how to give a report in court. The culmination of the pre-service training is the swearing-in ceremony by the local juvenile court judge(s). Volunteers also have opportunities during the course of the year to attend in-service trainings, which focus on relevant and timely topics for the CASA/GAL volunteer. In addition, CASA/GAL volunteers are required to complete 12 hours of in-service training annually.
Yes, CASA/GAL volunteers receive thorough training! The pre-service training takes a minimum of 30 hours. Through this training volunteers learn about courtroom procedures from those in the profession— judges, lawyers, social workers and court personnel. Volunteers also learn effective advocacy techniques for children and are educated about specific topics ranging from child sexual abuse to how to give a report in court. The culmination of the pre-service training is the swearing-in ceremony by the local juvenile court judge(s). Volunteers also have opportunities during the course of the year to attend in-service trainings, which focus on relevant and timely topics for the CASA/GAL volunteer. In addition, CASA/GAL volunteers are required to complete 12 hours of in-service training annually.