First Training Class of 2020 Graduates A Record 29 New Advocates

Our first class of 2020 was so large that we had to split it into two different groups! We had well over 30 trainees in this group, with 29 graduates and a handful that are wrapping up their final units. Now, we have 29 new advocates that have completed 40 hours of intensive training and are eager to begin advocating for the rights of our state’s most vulnerable children.

The comprehensive training serves to provide trainees an understanding of their role as CASA volunteer advocates. They are provided an overview of the CASA program, given a brief history of national child protection laws and how they came to be, and receive training on New Hampshire laws. They are provided with information about the social and mental health issues that may be involved in their cases, which can help them understand the different types of homes the children are in.

Though this necessary 40 hours of training serves as a foundation to their futures as a CASA, support does not stop there. During training, they are introduced to the strong support system that is offered to all advocates: CASA program managers, peer coordinators, support groups and on-going trainings to continue learning and growing as an advocate. Our new volunteers are ensured that they will never be alone during their cases.

Now that they have finished their training, these advocates will be assigned their first case. With a growing need for volunteer advocates, these individuals will find that they have an immediate role in New Hampshire’s family court system to represent the best interests of abused and neglected children.

If you are interested in becoming a CASA, click here to start your application. If you have questions about the process, the commitment, or any other concerns, feel free to join us at one of the many informational sessions hosted around the state for those who are curious, including a pizza party at our Berlin Office (2 Main Street, Berlin) on March 12. Keep an eye on the events posted on the CASA-NH Facebook page as we continue to post these meetings there. Alternatively, you can call the office at (603) 626-4600 to speak to someone directly before applying.

Thank you to our largest class: Pam, Lyn, Lisa, Kay, Jonathan, Doug, Dave, Cyndi, Carol, Bethany, Alexa, Bill, Bonnie, Debbie, Gayle, Jillian, Kathleen, Terri, Thomas, Andrea, Debbie, Emily, Marge, Michele, Mike, Peter, and Tracy!

View the photos below to read the message each of them wrote to their future CASA kids.