What We Believe

At Henrico CASA, our work is guided by a set of core values that are woven into the fabric of our mission. These values not only define who we are as an organization but also serve as beacons, illuminating the path towards achieving our collective vision for the children we serve.

Family Preservation and Reunification

We believe that children thrive when surrounded by the love and support of their families. Our commitment to family preservation and reunification is at the heart of our work. We advocate for safe and stable environments, ensuring that whenever possible, children are given the opportunity to grow and flourish within their own families. Through compassionate support, we strive to reunite families, fostering an environment where healing and growth can take place, while ensuring the safety and wellbeing of the children involved.

Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

The children we serve come from diverse backgrounds, reflecting the rich tapestry of Henrico County and the Greater Richmond area. We embrace diversity in all its forms, recognizing that every child deserves respect, care, and equal opportunities. We are dedicated to fostering an inclusive environment, where our volunteers, management, staff, and Board reflect the diverse communities we serve. By nurturing a culture of safety and acceptance, we create an atmosphere where everyone can confidently contribute their unique perspectives and experiences, further enriching our collective impact.

Collaboration within the Child Welfare and Court System

We firmly believe that by working together, we can achieve the best outcomes for the children we support. Collaboration lies at the core of our approach. We actively engage with professionals and stakeholders within the child welfare and court system to build strong partnerships. Through this collaborative effort, we ensure that all decisions are made in the best interest of the children, providing them with a seamless and comprehensive support system that maximizes their chances of healing and thriving.

Gratitude for the Commitment of Our Community

Our mission is made possible by the dedication and selflessness of our volunteers, staff, and donors. We deeply appreciate the commitment of each individual within our community who stands with us in support of children. It is through their unwavering passion and generosity that we can bring hope and positive change to the lives of those in need. We express our gratitude by valuing their contributions, fostering a culture of appreciation, and ensuring transparency in how their support is utilized to make a lasting impact.

Stewardship of Entrusted Resources

We recognize the importance of stewardship when it comes to the resources entrusted to us. We understand that our ability to serve children depends on the careful management of these resources. With great responsibility, we use our funding and assets thoughtfully, ensuring that every resource is utilized in a manner that maximizes its impact on the lives of the children who rely on us. Through efficient stewardship, we strive to ensure that no child in need is left without the support and care they deserve.

As we embark on this critical journey together, let us hold these core values close to our hearts, empowering our actions, and amplifying the positive change we seek to bring to the lives of vulnerable children. Together, we can nurture a brighter future, where every child finds love, safety, and the opportunity to thrive.

CASA Code

Our Charge

Established in 1994, Henrico CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) is authorized by the Code of Virginia which ensures that CASA programs provide trained advocates to advocate on behalf of children who are the subjects of juvenile court proceedings involving allegations of abuse and neglect. The Code of Virginia also lays out your duties as an advocate. These duties are the law.

Virginia Code §9.1-153

1. Investigate the case to provide independent factual information to the Court.
2. Submit a written report at hearings, including recommendations as to the child’s welfare.
3. Monitor the case to ensure compliance with the Court’s orders.
4. Assist the Guardian ad litem in providing effective representation of the child’s needs and best interests.
5. Report suspected abuse or neglect of a child.

Mandatory Reporting

Ensuring Every Child’s Safety through Mandated Reporting

As a mandated reporter, you have a legal obligation to report suspected cases of child abuse or neglect to the Virginia Department of Social Services (VDSS). This responsibility is paramount in our mission to protect and support vulnerable children who may be experiencing harm or facing unsafe situations.

What You Need to Know Before Making a Report

The purpose of mandated reporting is to identify suspected abused and neglected children as soon as possible so that they can be protected from further harm. Child Protective Services (CPS) cannot act until a report is made. Please remember that you are not responsible for investigating the allegations or proving abuse or neglect occurred – leave this for the professionals! You just need to be sure to report any suspicions and/or concerns to CPS.

Recognizing Signs of Abuse & Neglect:

It is important to be familiar with the signs and indicators of abuse and neglect. These may include physical injuries, emotional distress, sudden changes in behavior, unexplained absences from school, malnutrition, or inappropriate sexual behavior. Remember that identifying potential abuse or neglect may require keen observation and careful consideration of a child’s behavior and circumstances.

Maintaining Confidentiality and Privacy

As mandated reporters, we are obligated to respect the privacy of the child and family involved. Confidentiality is crucial throughout the reporting process. Avoid discussing your concerns with anyone other than the appropriate authorities or individuals directly involved in the investigation. Sharing information with unauthorized individuals could compromise the safety of the child and the integrity of the investigation.

Documenting Information

When reporting suspected abuse or neglect, it is essential to provide as much detailed information as possible. Document any observations, conversations, or incidents that led you to believe that a child may be at risk. Accurate and thorough documentation will aid investigators in their assessment and decision-making process. Here is the information you need to make a report with your Coordinator.

Immediate Reporting

In cases of immediate danger or life-threatening situations, contact local law enforcement or emergency services without delay. When a child’s safety is at risk, do not wait to make the report. Call 911 immediately. Timely reporting is critical to ensuring the child’s protection.

Contacting Child Protective Services (CPS)

To report suspected child abuse or neglect in Virginia, contact your local Child Protective Services agency. In Virginia, CPS is a part of the Virginia Department of Social Services. In Henrico, our local Child Abuse Hotline can be reached at (804) 501-5437 Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After hours or holiday/weekends, call (804) 786-8536.

Link to Online Reporting Portal:

Cooperating with Investigations

Once you have made a report, be prepared to cooperate with CPS investigators, law enforcement, or other relevant authorities. Your willingness to provide additional information or participate in the investigation may be crucial to ensuring the child’s safety and well-being.

As advocates for the protection of Virginia’s children, we embrace our responsibility as mandated reporters. Your commitment to this critical duty reflects the utmost dedication to the welfare of these vulnerable individuals, reinforcing our collective effort to ensure that every child grows up in a safe, nurturing, and loving environment.

Templates & Documents: Resources at Your Fingertips!

Here you will find a range of essential templates and documents, from contact sheets to case planning sheets and more. These tools are tailored to enhance your efficiency, helping you keep accurate records, plan effectively, and streamline your advocacy efforts. Explore this section to find the documents and templates you require in your advocacy journey.

Guardians of Trust: Upholding the Importance of Confidentiality

Confidentiality stands as a cornerstone of our mission, safeguarding the trust and well-being of the children and families we serve. As valued advocates, you have access to a wealth of sensitive information, holding the responsibility to handle it with the utmost care and respect.

Each piece of information, every detail in a case, is a part of someone’s story. This understanding underlines the need for unwavering commitment to strict confidentiality guidelines. The trust placed in us by the children, families, and the legal system relies on our ability to maintain the privacy of their personal matters.

You possess access to records due to court orders and signed releases of information. Remember, this access is a privilege granted to further our advocacy efforts. It is not only your ethical duty but a legal obligation to ensure that these records remain confidential and secure. Sharing information only with authorized individuals and within the confines of the law protects the dignity and rights of those involved.

In every interaction, every report, and every discussion, consider the impact of your words and actions on the lives of the vulnerable individuals we stand for. We ask that you set the tone for a culture of trust, professionalism, and integrity by honoring confidentiality – without compromise.

By upholding the principles of confidentiality, you are not only upholding our organization’s values but also preserving the foundation upon which impactful advocacy is built. Your dedication to this core principle sets the stage for positive change and empowers the lives you touch through your unwavering commitment to ethical practice.

Informed Advocacy: Essential Case Research Links

There are a few essential online tools to enhance your case research process. Empower your advocacy by harnessing the power of digital resources to gather critical information and insights for the cases you are assigned.

Virginia Case Status and Information Website

This site allows you to search legal information related to court involvement by individuals at both the general district and circuit court levels. You can find information on both civil and criminal history. This database allows you to look at court history, case statuses, hearing dates, and other information relevant to your case. This resource is especially helpful when you are aware of a parent’s criminal history or may have pending charges.

There is a court in each city and county in Virginia, and this System will require you to search by individual court. To begin your search for a case, select the court jurisdiction from the drop-down menu. You can search for cases using the plaintiff or defendant’s name, the case number, or the hearing date. Use the links below the court drop-down menu to select the search method.

VINE Link

VINE is the nation’s leading victim notification network. It allows survivors, victims of crime, and other concerned citizens to access timely and reliable information about offenders or criminal cases in U.S. jails and prisons. By utilizing this site, you can learn information about individuals on your case who are incarcerated and access insights into incarceration location, sentences, and release dates.

You are also able to register to receive automated notifications via email, text, or phone call, or check custody status information online at any time. This knowledge equips you to better comprehend the context surrounding the children and families you are supporting.

Henrico County Sheriff’s Office

On this site you can local an inmate, accessing details about individuals’ incarcerations, charges, and release dates. Additionally, you can gain access to community resources, programs, and initiatives aimed at promoting rehabilitation and well-being. The website also provides contact information for key personnel within the Sheriff’s Office in the event you need to contact them.

Requesting Police Records

In certain cases, accessing police records can provide critical insights to strengthen your advocacy efforts as a CASA advocate. These records might offer valuable information about incidents, investigations, and interactions involving the children and families. If you believe that obtaining police records could be beneficial for your case, we encourage you to reach out to your Coordinator to initiate the process. There are extra steps in this process, and your Coordinator will handle these requests to ensure appropriate protocols are followed.

Please remember that confidentiality and compliance with legal requirements are of utmost importance when handling sensitive information. By collaborating with your Coordinator, you are taking a responsible and effective path toward obtaining the insights you need to create positive outcomes for the children and families we serve.

Mastering the Art of Report Writing

In the realm of CASA advocacy, your reports are more than just documents; they are the framework that guides decisions impacting the lives of the children and families we serve. As a CASA advocate, your report writing skills are the bridge that connects the intricate tapestry of conversations, observations, and interactions you have had during your casework.

Each interview, every interaction, and all the insights you have collected form the foundation of your report. This compilation of facts, observations, and analyses is your opportunity to shine a light on the most essential aspects of the case. Your report becomes a trusted resource that judges rely upon to make informed decisions that shape the futures of the children under our care.

The importance of this role in this process cannot be overstated. Your thoroughness and unbiased reporting contribute to the objectivity and integrity of the judicial system. It ensures that the best interests of the children remain at the forefront of every decision made.

Deadlines, set by your coordinator, hold immense significance. These timelines are not just dates; they are commitments to the Code of Virginia. Meeting these deadlines ensures that your insights are integrated seamlessly into the decision-making process, leaving no room for unnecessary delays that could impact the lives of those we advocate for.

Remember, your reports are more than just words on paper. They are the embodiment of your dedication, empathy, and tireless effort. Your commitment to mastering the art of report writing empowers you to create an enduring impact on the lives of children and families, ensuring that their voices are heard, their needs are addressed, and their futures are brighter because of your advocacy.

Advocacy in Focus: Navigating CASA Report Formats

The complete CASA Report format is the format you will use most of the time. The complete report format serves as the cornerstone of your advocacy efforts. It is designed to encompass all vital information, ensuring that our judges and professionals have the necessary information to make informed decisions. We require all advocates to utilize this comprehensive format as a standard practice.

We recognize that there may be specific cases or circumstances where an alternative format might be necessary. In such instances, advocates should seek approval from their Volunteer Coordinator, who can provide guidance and make exceptions as needed to support individual case strategies.

The CASA Report Update format is a streamlined option reserved for situations such as when there are less than two months between hearings or in the case of emergency hearing requests where the Court’s focus is on a specific issue. This concise format allows our advocates to provide essential updates without the need for a full report, yet still ensures that vital information reaches the court promptly. Advocates may use the report update format when these specific conditions apply, after approval from their Volunteer Coordinator.

We recognize that we sometimes learn or receive important information shortly before a hearing, after submission of a full report. An Addendum format is used when last-minute information emerges that could significantly impact the Court’s decision or alter our recommendations. This format is exclusively intended for critical, time-sensitive updates that could not have been included in the original report.

Advocates should utilize the Addendum format sparingly, ensuring that the Court receives most of the relevant information at the time the full report was submitted. When unforeseen developments arise post-report submission, the Addendum format enables us to maintain the highest level of advocacy by keeping the Court informed and promoting the best interests of the children we serve. Please talk to your Volunteer Coordinator if you feel an Addendum may be required.

Charting the Path: Navigating Case Histories for Effective Advocacy

The Court History section within your CASA Reports is a powerful tool that significantly impacts the effectiveness of your advocacy. It serves as a distilled, chronological record of petitions, motions, and Court Orders from the case file, meticulously crafted to provide judges and professionals with clarity and efficiency. The Court History section not only saves judges and professionals time but also ensures that they receive information in a format that is both easy to read and clear.

Our diligent efforts in presenting a concise and well-organized history of the case do not go unnoticed. Judges frequently comment on the value of this section, underscoring the vital role it plays in aiding them to understand the family’s involvement in the court system. It is a testament to the impact we can make by going the extra mile to provide the best support for the children we serve, and the Court History section is a vital part of that commitment.

The tools in this section include general examples as well as the specific court language that you will see used in court documents, depending on the type of case you are serving.

Simplified Case Histories for Efficiency

We understand that crafting the court report case history section can be a time-consuming task! To simplify the process, we have created a resource that offers templated language for various types of cases. You will find pre-written content for different case categories, such as Custody/Visitation, CHINS, Protective Orders, and Abuse/Neglect Foster Care.

These templates can serve as a valuable starting point, providing a structure for your case history report. Click on the section that corresponds to your specific case type, and then you can customize it. This resource is designed to save you time and effort, though please be sure to customize the language to the specific details of your case. We hope you find these templates to be a useful addition to your toolkit, empowering you to create impactful and comprehensive case histories with greater efficiency.

CHINS (Child In Need of Services/Supervision) Order Language

Juvenile is ordered to keep the peace and be of good behavior. Break no laws of the Commonwealth or sister jurisdictions. Attend school all day, every day, with no unexcused absences or tardies. Attend all classes. Obey all school and house rules. Remain drug, alcohol and tobacco free.

Child Protective Order Language

Foster Care Hearings Order Language

Empowering Change: Crafting Meaningful Recommendations

In the heart of our advocacy lies the power to create positive change for the children and families we serve. Crafting thoughtful and well-informed recommendations is a cornerstone of this transformative work. Our ability to guide the Court and professionals toward effective decisions hinges on the quality of these recommendations. Advocates are encouraged to collaborate closely with their Volunteer Coordinator throughout the case, always considering the best interests of the child and potential resources or services that can provide stability to struggling families. The process begins by crafting these recommendations before you even start writing the report, ensuring they are well-supported and backed by the comprehensive understanding you have gained during the case. Your dedication to this crucial aspect of advocacy will make a profound difference in the lives of those we serve.

To help in this process, we have crafted example recommendations that are likely to be incorporated into Court Orders for various case types. These recommendations serve as valuable templates, providing a starting point for your advocacy work. While they can be adapted to fit the specifics of each case, they offer a strong foundation based on best practices and the insights you have gained throughout your advocacy. By using these examples and working with your Volunteer Coordinator, you can streamline your recommendation development process and ensure they are aligned with the best interests of the children and families you serve.

Embracing Families: Trauma-Informed Practice for Advocates

At CASA, we recognize the profound impact that trauma can have on the lives of the children and families we serve. Our commitment to Trauma-Informed Advocacy ensures that we approach our work with sensitivity and understanding. In this section, you will discover valuable resources and information to deepen your understanding of trauma and its effects, including Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and the importance of resiliency. As advocates, it is your responsibility to help create a safe and supportive environment, and this section has tools and information to help you be a compassionate, informed, and effective voice for those in need.

Links to Additional Resources

Be A Continuous Learner

Center for Disease Control & Prevention

Understanding Trauma Videos

Vigilant Voices™ Podcast Episodes

Documentaries

Continuous Learning

Nurturing Your Advocacy Expertise

In the ever-evolving landscape of child welfare advocacy, our commitment to growth and learning is paramount. As CASA advocates, your role extends beyond the present; it is about embracing a journey of continuous improvement. That is where the importance of accumulating 12 hours of annual continuing education credits comes into play.

Continuing education is not a mere obligation; it is an opportunity to explore a broad range of topics that directly impact your advocacy skills. From understanding family dynamics to delving into legal nuances, from enhancing your communication skills to unraveling the intricacies of the child welfare system — each hour you invest in learning directly contributes to your ability to create positive change.

By accumulating the 12 hours of required continuing education credits annually, you are embracing a commitment to both personal growth and the betterment of the children and families we serve. As you broaden your knowledge horizons, you elevate your capacity to advocate with empathy, insight, and effectiveness.

We encourage you to approach continuing education with enthusiasm and an open mind. Through ongoing learning, you are not just achieving a requirement; you are empowering yourself to better support the children and families who depend on you.

Continuing Education for Impactful Service

Stay ahead in your advocacy journey with our upcoming Continuing Education (CE) opportunities. These events provide valuable insights and knowledge that can elevate your advocacy for children and families. Be sure to pay attention to the CASA Chronicles (the monthly e-newsletter for you) as well as our special CE email with details on opportunities and how to sign up to attend! Don’t miss out on these chances to expand your skills, network with your colleagues, and stay up-to-date on important topics.

Virginia CASA College

The Virginia CASA College can also serve as a gateway to a wealth of valuable resources and training opportunities. Advocates across the state have access to a variety of essential training sessions, all designed to enhance your skills and knowledge to better serve children and families in need. This resource offers recorded training sessions and materials on a range of critical topics. To access the Virginia CASA College, simply use the password below to unlock a trove of knowledge and support. We encourage you to take full advantage of this resource to further your advocacy journey and make an even greater impact in the lives of the children we serve!

Click on Volunteer and Enter Password: casavolunteer

Community Education

Educating the Community

Part of our mission is to educate the community on the needs of abused and neglected children, and we are deeply committed to providing valuable educational resources to our community. Our active blog and engaging podcast are dedicated to delivering insightful content on topics that matter to children and families.

Whether you are looking for advice, inspiring stories, or informative discussions, our educational outreach has you covered. Join us as we explore critical issues, share experiences, and offer valuable insights that can make a real difference. We invite you to connect with us through our blog and podcast and be a part of our mission to empower our community with knowledge and understanding.

Blog

Our blog is a great source for the latest updates on important topics that impact the lives of children and families. We delve into critical issues, offer expert insights, and provide practical guidance. You will find thought-provoking articles, helpful resources, and informative content that aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Whether you are seeking information on advocacy, child welfare, or other relevant matters, our blog is your destination for well-researched, timely, and engaging content. Explore our articles, access valuable resources, and stay connected with the latest insights to make a positive difference in our community.

Podcast

In our work at Henrico CASA we have learned that it is important to KNOW about the challenges facing children and families to ensure NO child faces abuse, neglect, or trauma. And that’s what the Vigilant Voices™ podcast is all about. Join us as we explore topics relevant to creating safe homes, healthy childhoods, and thriving communities. Every child deserves a safe, healthy, loving home for good and together, we can make that vision a reality in Richmond and beyond.

Empowering Your Advocacy Toolbox: Access Additional Resources

There is a wealth of additional resources that can help enrich your CASA advocacy journey. These resources can offer additional tools and information to elevate your ability to make a lasting difference.

Please note that these resources are meant to enhance, not overwhelm, your already dedicated efforts. We encourage you to explore them at your own pace and according to your individual needs.

As you engage with these resources, remember that your commitment to children’s well-being remains at the core. Your proactive approach to learning and adapting makes you an even more effective advocate, guiding positive change and ensuring brighter futures for those who depend on us.

Cultural Competence

Understanding the diverse backgrounds and experiences of the children and families we serve is paramount. This resource can help promote cultural competence, ensuring your advocacy is sensitive, inclusive, and respectful of everyone’s unique identity.

Helpful Acronyms

The world of child welfare and advocacy is often accompanied by a flurry of acronyms and specialized terms. This helpful glossary breaks down these terms, empowering you to navigate the intricacies of the field with confidence and clarity.

Understanding Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts

UNDERSTANDING JUVENILE AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS COURTS PDF

Engaging Activities to Interact With Children

Connecting with the children you advocate for on a personal level can have a profound impact. Here are a few of our favorite activities that are tailored to foster meaningful interactions, helping you build trust and understanding.

Trusted Resources

There are many valuable links and resources available from our trusted partners and like-minded community organizations. Whether you are seeking information on child welfare, educational support, or other important topics, these are some great resources to stay informed, stay connected, and enhance your ability to make a positive impact on the lives of children and families.

HENRICO COUNTY JDR COURT
UNDERSTANDING JUVENILE AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS COURTS PDF VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF SOCIAL SERVICES VIRGINIA 2-1-1 HENRICO MENTAL HEALTH THE LIFELINE AND 988 COMMUNITY SERVICE BOARDS VIRGINIA NATIONAL ALLIANCE OF MENTAL ILLNESS VIRGINIA SUBSTANCE ABUSE AND MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES HENRICO COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS HOMELESSNESS / HOUSING

CASA Happenings

Engaging In Community and Connection

In our shared journey of advocating for children and families, community and connection hold a special place. Our events are moments that bring us together, a chance to learn, share, and celebrate the collective impact we are making. These gatherings reflect our commitment to both our mission and to you, our dedicated CASA advocates.

While we understand the depth of your dedication and the demands on your time, we want to assure you that attending our events is a choice, not an obligation. Your primary role in advocating for the well-being of children and families is already a significant commitment, and we appreciate the immense value you bring to our cause.

Should your schedule permit, we warmly extend an invitation for you to join us. Engaging in our events is a chance to celebrate successes and strengthen the bonds that tie our CASA community together. Your dedication to your advocacy remains at the heart of our mission. So, whether you are able to join us or not, please know that you are valued, appreciated, and an integral part of our CASA family.

Helping Us Recruit

As dedicated CASA volunteers, you are our strongest advocates, not just in the courtroom but also in your community. Do you know someone who might be interested in learning more about our mission and becoming an advocate for children and families? We would love to connect with them to share more or send them to our website so that they can sign up for a virtual informational session. Your influence can help us grow our community of advocates and make an even greater impact. Thank you for your ongoing dedication and for being champions of our cause!

HENRICO CASA VOLUNTEER PAGE

Engage with Us On Social Media

Stay Connected, Stay Informed!

We are dedicated to keeping you and our supporters informed and connected to our mission. Join us on social media platforms to stay updated on the latest news, resources, and events! Engaging with us on these platforms is a fantastic way to connect with our community and help amplify our mission’s impact. Follow, like, and interact with us on your favorite social media channels to be part of the conversation and help us make a difference together.

FACEBOOK

@henricocasa

INSTAGRAM

@henricocasa

YOUTUBE

@henrico_casa

LINKEDIN

http://www.linkedin.com/company/henricocasa

PINTEREST

@henricocasa

TIKTOK

@henricocasa

All Children Deserve a Safe, Loving, Home for Good®

Our annual event is a magical one that is all about making a house a Home for Good®! This annual fundraiser is where the spirit of giving meets the joy of play. See the work of our amazingly generous partners who are building whimsical playhouses, creative designs, and community togetherness. Each playhouse is a work of art and a symbol of hope, raising funds that directly support our mission. Whether you are exploring the playhouses, participating in the Community Day activities, or contributing to the cause, Home for Good® is a celebration of love, laughter, and building brighter futures for the children and families we serve.

PLAYHOUSES ON DISPLAY EVERY APRIL AT SHORT PUMP TOWN CENTER!

HENRICO CASA HOME FOR GOOD PAGE