Program Oversight

CASA programs are initiated, developed and operated at the local level with regulatory and oversight monitoring provided by Department of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS). In 1990 the Virginia General Assembly enacted legislation providing for statewide implementation of the CASA program.

The legislation assigned the responsibility for oversight of local programs as well as for development of statewide regulations to DCJS. The Regulations provide programs with standards to help ensure consistency in program development and service delivery; addressing several basic areas including screening, training and policy and procedure development for local programs. The regulations were revised in 2008.

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The National Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) Association, together with its state and local member programs, supports and promotes court- appointed volunteer advocacy so every abused or neglected child in the United States can be safe, have a permanent home and have the opportunity to thrive. The National CASA Association was founded in 1982, and provides technical assistance and national leadership to local programs across the country.

The CASA concept is endorsed by American Bar Association, National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges and National Association of Public Child Welfare Administrators. When you sign up to volunteer as a CASA or GAL advocate, you’re signing up with one of nearly 950 state organizations and local programs in 49 states and the District of Columbia. You are joining a movement of more than 85,000 volunteers and can make a real difference in the life of a child.

Learn more about NCASAA by clicking here.