Meet Lou P. .... To be able to build up a child's self confidence, to help them to develop to their full potential, to let them know that they're lovable and can trust people enough that they can love in return, is for me what the work of a CASA is all about.

Training

1. Classroom training is offered in January, May and September at Central Virginia Community College, with an instructor and speakers. For more information, please contact Anne Wojcikowski at 434/528-2552.

   Topics covered in training:

   • Understanding Child Abuse and Neglect
   • Principles and Concepts that Guide CASA Volunteer Work
   • The Development of Child Abuse and Neglect Laws
   • Introduction of Child Protective Services and the Court Process
   • Roles in the Juvenile Court Case
   • Culture, Diversity, and Personal Values
   • Understanding Family Strengths and Culture
   • How stress, Domestic Violence, substance abuse, mental illness and poverty impact families.
   • Writing a Court Report
   • Two Court Observations

   The next class at CVCC starts May 20, 2010, and ends August 5, 2010

2. Independent Study

   As a student of the Independent Study program, you complete most of the National CASA curriculum on your own time and meet with your instructor either one-on-one or in a group setting. CASA of Central VA requires at least 10 hours of in person instruction throughout your training. Two court observations and a court report project are also a requirement to complete the Independent Study Program. Contact Angela Skarp at 540/586-4932, Ext. 3202 for more information on the Independent Study program.