How does a CASA volunteer differ from a Department of Child Services Family Case Manager?
The Family Case Manager is employed by the state. They sometimes work on as many as 60 cases at one time, and are frequently unable to conduct a comprehensive investigation of each. A CASA volunteer has more time and a smaller caseload. The CASA volunteer does not replace a Family Case Manager; he or she is independently appointed by the court. The CASA volunteer can thoroughly examine a child’s case, has knowledge of community resources, and can make recommendations to the court, independent of DCS’s policies/guidelines.