Become a CASA in 2026

Child Advocates of Nevada County’s CASA Program is accepting applicants for the Spring 2026 CASA Training. Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASAs) are community volunteers who are screened and trained to work with children who have experienced abuse and/or neglect and who have open cases in Dependency Court. CASAs stand as a caring, committed adult for a child whose family is in crisis. CASAs work collaboratively with the court, Child Welfare Services, teachers, medical personnel, and other service providers to ensure that the child’s needs are being identified and met and that the child is placed in a permanent and loving home as soon as possible. CASAs also have the option of working with a teen in the Juvenile Justice system or acting as a mentor through the One 2 One program for a youth not in the court system but who needs adult guidance and support. Successful applicants to the CASA Program undergo a thorough background check and 35 hours of initial training and are guided and supported by professional staff. For information about becoming a CASA and/or a One 2 One Mentor, visit www.considercasa.com or email melinda@caofnc.org. Training begins in late February and is held two days a week from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. in Nevada City.
A One 2 One Youth Mentor is trained as a CASA and empowers youth to explore prosocial pathways and make safer and healthier decision through one-on-one mentorship and advocacy. A One 2 One Mentor functions as an additional champion and source of support for at-risk youth, ages 10-17. Mentors support youth by:
Creating a safe space for the youth to share without judgment
Exploring new interests and activities which can be funded by One 2 One
Facilitating the accomplishment of new goals
Promoting new life skills
Pursuing job/career developmen