Needs From: United Way of Central Massachusetts

CASA Volunteers come from many different places and all walks of life. Whether you are a captain of industry or a quietly concerned community member, whatever your schooling or own life experiences, you can be a successful volunteer. All you need is the shared passion and commitment to advocate for children!

There are three steps:

Complete the online application. Pass a background check. Complete a training course.

The course is offered quarterly and provides an overview of CASA Volunteer roles and responsibilities. The training includes the following topics:

Child Protection: CASA, the Courts, and the Worcester County Department of Children and Families, Introduction to the Needs of the Children We Serve, Case building – Interviewing and Investigation Techniques, Report Writing, and Understanding the Children We Serve, and A Panel Discussion with Experienced CASA Volunteers

Upon completion of the training course, you will receive your first case assignment. A staff case manager will assist you, guide you, and provide any resources you need. Administrative assistance is provided by the CASA office.

The average time commitment for a CASA Volunteer is 15 - 20 hours per month. We ask that volunteers commit to the case until it is closed. A typical case lasts 9 -15 months.

Meals On Wheels Volunteer Drivers deliver nutritious meals to homebound older adults in their community (not in the city of Worcester, but in the surrounding towns). This opportunity involves delivering meals, and also checking on the consumer to ensure their safety. Often times the driver is the only person the consumer may see throughout the day. Volunteer Drivers may commit to one or more days per week. Meals are delivered Monday – Friday between the hours of 10:00am – 2:00pm.

Applicants must have valid Massachusetts Driver’s License and reliable transportation.