HOW TO GET INVOLVED
​
We welcome people from all walks of life. We are simply looking for people who care about children and have common sense. As a volunteer, you will be thoroughly trained and well supported by professional staff to help you through each case.
Being a CASA volunteer does not require any special education or background, simply the desire to help abused and neglected children find safe, permanent homes.
​
What does it take to become a CASA volunteer?
Step 1: Each candidate must be at least 21 years old, pass a background check and participate in a 40-hour training course.
​
Step 2: After completing the training, the volunteer is assigned his first case. A volunteer’s average time commitment to a case is approximately 4-8 hours per month.
​
Step 3: Maintain monthly visit with your child(ren) and give written reports prior to court hearings.
​
Volunteer advocates have support and supervision every step of the way and always have resources available.
SERVICEHEART
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)
SERVICEHEART CASA
Serving Otero and Lincoln Counties
our Mission Statement
​​
The mission of Serviceheart CASA, a nonprofit organization serving Otero and Lincoln Counties, is to provide specially selected and trained community volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children in the pursuit of safe and permanent homes. The CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) program recruits, trains and supervises volunteers who advocate for this vulnerable population. Serviceheart CASA’s goal is to break the cycle of child abuse and neglect through our commitment in advocating for the children in foster care. Serviceheart CASA works within the 12th Judicial Court. Serviceheart CASA continues to be committed to foster children of all ages, including by supporting and advocating for foster youth ages 18-21 who are aging out of the system to be on their own as adults.
​
The Serviceheart CASA program was established in the spring of 2012 with a mission to advocate for the best interests of children who have experienced abuse or neglect. Since its inception, Serviceheart CASA has built strong collaborative partnerships throughout the community, working alongside courts, child welfare professionals, educators, caregivers, and service providers to support children in need.
Over the years, Serviceheart CASA volunteers and staff have provided a powerful and consistent voice for more than 350 children in Otero and Lincoln Counties who have entered the foster care system. Each child is matched with a highly trained volunteer advocate who brings unique experiences, perspectives, and a shared commitment to helping children achieve safe, permanent, and nurturing homes.
​
CASA volunteers develop meaningful relationships with the children they serve, gathering information and making recommendations that focus on each child's individual needs and best interests. The Children’s Court Judge carefully considers CASA observations and recommendations at every hearing, ensuring that each child's voice is heard throughout the court process. Through dedicated advocacy, compassion, and community support, Serviceheart CASA continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families.
​​
