Office of the Court Appointed Special Advocate

Child sitting alone with text "In Snohomish County, More than 400 children live in foster care.
Children with a CASA Volunteer are more likely to find a safe, permanent home.
Children with a CASA volunteer are 50% less likely to re-enter foster care.
Change A Childs Story. Apply today. Training and Support Provided

Volunteer Your Time to Change a Child's Life

Nobody longs for a safe and loving family more than a child in foster care. Volunteer court appointed special advocates (CASA) are empowered by the courts to help make this dream a reality. CASAs are often the one consistent adult in the child’s life, speaking up for them throughout the dependency process and making recommendations as to what is in the child’s best interest.

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What is the role of a CASA volunteer?

Becoming a CASA volunteer is an investment of time, energy and heart. 

The CASA is a sworn officer of the court who gathers fact-based information about the child’s situation. As an advocate for the child, the CASA speaks with individuals involved in the child’s life so they can make objective recommendations to the court as to what is in the child’s best interest regarding their future, such as being reunified with their parents, living with relatives, guardianship or adoption. The CASA prepares reports to the court with their recommendations, attends all court hearings for the child, visits the child on a regular basis and participates in case related meetings. The CASA follows through on the case until it is permanently resolved. Each case is as unique as the child involved.

The Snohomish County Office of the Court Appointed Special Advocate is actively seeking volunteers from all cultures, professions, ethnic and educational backgrounds to join our team.

CASAs do not have to be a lawyer or social worker to be a volunteer. We seek to recruit, train and supervise quality volunteers who reflect the diversity of the population we serve. As a volunteer, CASAs are thoroughly trained and well supported by professional staff to help them through each case.

CASAs must pass a criminal records background check and participate in an in-person interview. Qualified applicants are required to participate in a 30+ hour pre-service training, commit to remain with their assigned case until it is dismissed and possess a desire to make difference in the life of a child.

How to Apply

Speak up for a child today. Become a CASA by taking the first step: submit an application  to the Snohomish County Office of the Court Appointed Special Advocate. For more information, review the program brochure (PDF) or connect with us at (425) 388 -7854 or email.

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) Association Memberships

The Snohomish County Office of the Court Appointed Special Advocate is an associated member of Washington CASA Association, Washington Association of Child Advocate Programs and National CASA/GAL Association.