National CASA Core Model

The National CASA/GAL Association core model identifies the foundational elements of CASA/GAL best interest advocacy. This includes our guiding principle, the types of cases served, the primary activities performed by CASA AND GAL volunteers, parameters for staff serving cases and the screening, training and supervision requirements. Assistance and support from the National CASA/GAL Association is limited to core model activities.   

The CASA/GAL program provides screened, trained, and qualified community volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children and youth who are before the court as a result of abuse or neglect as defined by the state child welfare laws*, living at home or in out-of-home care. State statute takes precedence if it provides for the CASA/GAL volunteer to take other types of cases. 

CASA best interest advocacy is driven by the guiding principle that children grow and develop best with their family of origin if that can be safely achieved. CASA volunteers serve children from birth through the age defined by state statute as the limit to youth remaining in care. 

CASA volunteers support, mentor and advocate for children’s best interest through the following activities:

• Information gathering

• Visit the child at least monthly

• Collaborate and coordinate with legal, child welfare and other partners to assure service provision that is in the child’s best interests

• Report to the court with recommendations regarding the child's placement and needed services

• Monitor the case until released by the court

CASA and GAL volunteers are:

• Screened per National CASA/GAL Association Standards 

• Trained according to National CASA/GAL Association Training and Facilitation Standards

• Supported by staff or peer in accordance with National CASA/GAL Association Standards

* State statute takes precedence if it provides for the CASA/GAL volunteer to take other types of cases. National CASA/GAL Association assistance and support is limited to work with dependent children who have experienced abuse or neglect. CASA/GAL program staff serving children is kept to a minimum and only occurs under extraordinary circumstances or when mandated. Anyone serving children must adhere to the service provisions and standards outlined in the core model.