Thank you for your interest in becoming a volunteer advocate with Kids’ Voice of Indiana! In Marion County, Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) and Guardian ad Litem (GAL) volunteers do similar work, but for different types of legal cases. CASA volunteers are appointed to cases when a child has experienced abuse or neglect, while GAL volunteers are appointed to especially contentious adoption, divorce, paternity, and guardianship cases.

Please complete the short Volunteer Interest form below and someone will be in contact with you about our next training. 

More About the CASA/GAL Volunteer Roles

Our CASA/GAL volunteers are appointed to advocate for children who have been abused or neglected, or whose family is experiencing instability due to an especially contentious family legal matter. Both types of volunteer advocates conduct home visits, gather information about the child’s situation, and talk with family members and other relevant adults like service providers. Volunteers provide a report with recommendations for the child’s best interest which are included in the Court’s decision-making process. Volunteer advocates may also appear in court and testify on the child’s behalf. Each volunteer receives thorough training from experienced Kids’ Voice staff, and are supported and advised by Kids’ Voice staff throughout their case.

What’s the impact?

• Representing a child’s best interest in a family law case (as our GAL volunteers do) can often prevent them from experiencing abuse and neglect.
• Studies have shown that kids who have experienced abuse or neglect fare better with a CASA volunteer by their side. They are more likely to find a safe and permanent home, succeed in school, and are half as likely to re-enter foster care, according to National CASA.