January 21, 2026 •Johnson County CASA
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As the year begins, a lot of people take time to reflect on how they’re spending their energy, who they’re helping, and what kind of impact they want to make. If you’ve ever felt a pull toward child advocacy and real community impact, volunteering as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) might be the role you’ve been waiting for.
At CASA of Johnson County, we train everyday citizens to advocate for children who have experienced abuse or neglect and are now part of the child welfare system. These children are often navigating the court system without a consistent adult focused solely on their best interests. That’s where CASA volunteers come in, and where you could make a lifelong difference.
What CASA Volunteers Actually Do
When a child is removed from their home and enters the child welfare system, the court appoints a CASA to be their advocate. This role involves spending time with the child, gathering information from adults in their life (like teachers, foster parents, and caseworkers), and submitting written recommendations to the judge about what’s best for the child.
You don’t have to be a legal expert to serve. CASA volunteers come from all walks of life: teachers, nurses, retirees, small business owners, and more. What they share is a deep commitment to standing up for children during one of the most difficult times in their lives.
You can read more about the types of children we serve here.
Who Can Volunteer as a CASA?
We welcome volunteers from all across Indiana. While our cases are filed in Johnson County, children may reside outside of the county, and having volunteers throughout the state helps us serve these children more effectively.
To become a CASA, you must:
- Be at least 21 years old
- Pass background checks
- Complete an interview and pre-service training
- Commit to staying with a case until it closes
Training is thorough and supportive. You'll learn everything you need to feel confident stepping into the courtroom and speaking up for a child. Plus, you're never alone, we provide guidance and supervision throughout your case.
Explore our Volunteer page for more on the process.
Why the Start of the Year Is a Smart Time to Get Involved
A new year naturally brings a sense of reset. If you're craving more purpose, more connection, or a way to give back in a direct and powerful way, CASA advocacy checks all those boxes.
Many of our volunteers say they were looking for something meaningful to do with their time, but didn’t expect it to be this fulfilling. It’s not always easy, but it’s always worth it.
How to Get Started
If something about CASA work speaks to you, even if you're unsure whether you're ready, the best next step is simple: submit an application or give us a call. We’re happy to talk through the role and help you decide if it’s the right fit for you.
No pressure. Just a conversation about how you might fit into this vital work.
Apply to become a CASA volunteer or reach out to our office to learn more. This could be the start of something truly life-changing, for you and for a child who needs someone in their corner.
FAQ: CASA Advocacy in Indiana
What does a CASA volunteer actually do?
A CASA volunteer advocates for a child involved in the court system due to abuse or neglect. This includes spending time with the child, interviewing adults in their life, and writing reports for the judge about what’s in the child’s best interest.
Do I need legal experience to become a CASA?
No. CASA volunteers come from all backgrounds. We provide full training, and you’ll have ongoing support from our staff throughout your case.
How much time does it take to be a CASA?
Most volunteers spend about 8-10 hours a month on their case. This includes visits, phone calls, documentation, and court appearances.
Can I volunteer if I don’t live in Johnson County?
Yes. We accept volunteers from anywhere in Indiana. Some children assigned to our program live outside Johnson County, so statewide volunteers help us serve more children efficiently.
What kind of training is involved?
Training includes pre-service classes, courtroom observation, and hands-on instruction. You'll learn how the child welfare system works and how to write effective reports for the court.
How do I know if CASA is right for me?
If you care deeply about children, want to make a difference, and can commit to seeing a case through, you might be a great fit. Still unsure? Give us a call, we’re happy to talk it through with you.