In Episode #38, we take a moment to chat with State Director Melissa Palokas. Missy chats with us about the current state of the CASA Program including our current recruitment efforts and the need for more CASA volunteers. Currently, only about half of children in foster care have a CASA volunteer. All children experiencing foster care have an attorney, but only half have the additional support of a CASA. In all of our recruitment efforts, we have found that the best recruitment tool at our disposal is our current CASA Volunteers! So, if you know anyone interesting in joining our amazing CASA Program, please direct them to apply directly on our website: https://courts.delaware.gov/childadvocate/CASA/application.aspx
In addition to recruitment, Missy further explains our strategic plan for the CASA Program as well as National CASA Standards. We aim to remain in good standing with the National CASA Program and in order to do that, there are certain standards we must maintain including having all CASA Volunteer achieve 12 hours of in-service credit per year, visit their child(ren) at least monthly, and actively participate in cases. Enjoy our chat with Missy Palokas!