How does a CASA volunteer differ from a social service caseworker?
Social workers generally are employed by state governments. They sometimes work on as many as 12 to 15 cases (20-30 children) at a time and are frequently unable to conduct a comprehensive investigation of all the circumstances. The CASA is a volunteer with more time and a smaller caseload (1-2 cases at a time). The CASA does not replace a social worker on a case; he or she is an independent appointee of 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 state agency restrictions.
