CASA Lassen County

Be a voice for children in foster care

The CASA Program at Lassen Family Services trains volunteers to serve as Court Appointed Special Advocates for children in juvenile dependency court in Lassen County. Founded in 1996, our local CASA program supports foster youth in Susanville and surrounding communities with consistent, caring advocacy.

What Is CASA?

Local advocacy for children in foster care

CASA stands for Court Appointed Special Advocate. In Lassen County, CASA volunteers are specially selected and trained community members appointed by a judge to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect. These children are under the jurisdiction of the juvenile dependency court and often face complex systems and life changes. CASA volunteers provide consistent presence, gather information, and make recommendations focused on the child’s best interests. The CASA Lassen County program operates under Lassen Family Services and reflects its broader mission of safety, stability, and community-centered support.

What a CASA Does

The role of a volunteer child advocate

If you’re wondering what a CASA does in Lassen County, the role is both structured and meaningful. CASA volunteers serve as independent advocates focused solely on the child’s wellbeing:

  • Gather Information – Meet regularly with the child and communicate with caregivers, teachers, and service providers to understand the child’s needs.

  • Report to the Court – Provide written reports and recommendations to the juvenile dependency court judge.

  • Monitor Services and Progress – Help ensure that court-ordered services are implemented and that the child’s needs are addressed.

  • Provide Consistent Support – Offer stability and encouragement during a time when many adults may change in the child’s life.

Training and Ongoing Support

Prepared volunteers, guided by local leadership

CASA volunteers in Lassen County complete structured training before being appointed by the court. The training covers child development, trauma awareness, court procedures, confidentiality, and advocacy responsibilities. Volunteers are prepared to navigate the juvenile dependency system with clarity and care.


After appointment, volunteers receive continued supervision and support from CASA staff at Lassen Family Services. Regular check-ins, additional education opportunities, and guidance ensure that advocates feel confident and informed. Volunteers are never left to navigate complex cases alone.

How to Become a CASA Volunteer

Steps to serve foster youth in Lassen County

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer child advocate, the process is structured and accessible. Each step ensures readiness and commitment to children under court jurisdiction.

01

Submit an Application

Begin by completing an application expressing your interest in CASA Lassen County. Staff will review your information and explain next steps.

02

Participate in an Interview and Screening

Applicants complete interviews, background checks, and reference checks to ensure child safety. This process protects both volunteers and the youth served.

03

Complete Required Training

All volunteers complete comprehensive training before being sworn in by a judge. Training prepares you for courtroom procedures, documentation, and effective advocacy.

04

Court Appointment and Case Assignment

fter training, volunteers are formally appointed by the juvenile dependency court. You will then be matched with a case and begin advocacy under staff supervision.

CASA Lassen County FAQs

Common questions about becoming a CASA volunteer

  • What does a CASA do in Lassen County?

    A CASA volunteer advocates for a child involved in the juvenile dependency court system. They meet with the child, gather information from key adults, and provide recommendations to the judge. Their focus is the child’s safety, stability, and long-term wellbeing.

  • How do I become a CASA volunteer?

    You begin by submitting an application to the CASA Program at Lassen Family Services. After interviews and screening, you complete required training before being sworn in by a judge. Once appointed, you are assigned to a case with ongoing staff support.

  • Is CASA part of Lassen Family Services?

    Yes. The CASA Lassen County program operates under Lassen Family Services. It reflects the organization’s broader commitment to supporting vulnerable children and families in the community.

  • Do I need prior legal experience to volunteer?

    No legal background is required. Volunteers receive structured training that explains court procedures and advocacy responsibilities. Ongoing supervision ensures volunteers feel supported throughout their service.

  • How much time does a CASA volunteer commit?

    Time commitments vary by case, but volunteers typically dedicate consistent monthly hours to meetings, documentation, and court appearances. CASA staff provide clear expectations before appointment so volunteers can plan accordingly.