CASA of Lafourche, Inc.


Volunteer Policy Manual


Adopted by the Board of Directors July 16, 2009

Revised on May 31, 2011

Revised on September 26, 2011

Revised on November 20, 2014

Revised on July 20, 2017

Revised on August 5, 2024

Revised on March 3, 2025

Revised on April 15, 2025


 406 W. 3rd Street 

Thibodaux, LA 70301

Phone:  985-446-6600

Fax:  985-446-6655



CASA of LAFOURCHE PROGRAM GUIDELINES

TABLE OF CONTENTS


      Message from the Executive Director           4


  1. Program Mission 5


  1. Program Vision 5


  1. Definition of CASA Volunteer 5


  1. CASA Program Standards

    1. CASA Program 5-11

    2. CASA Volunteer 11

    3. Certificate of Ability 11

    4. Feedback and Evaluation 11

    5. Recognition and Opportunity for Advancement 12

    6. Volunteer Records 12

    7. Scheduled Volunteer Time/Records 12

    8. Absenteeism 12

    9. Media Conduct 12


V.       Roles and Responsibilities of a CASA Volunteer

A. Who to Interview 12

B.  Maintain Contact 13

C. Interview Guidelines 13

D. Sharing of Information 13

E. Professional Conduct 13-14

F. Releasing Information About Foster Parents 14

G. Maintaining Records 14

H. Monthly Reports 14

I. Court Reports 14-15

  1. Meetings 15

  2. Attendance of Court Hearings 15

  3. Monitoring Case 15

  4. Relation to Parties in a Case 15

  5. Employment/Conflict of Interest 15

  6. Providing Services 15

  7. Transporting Child 15-16

  8. Abiding by Laws 16

  9. Reporting Child Abuse/Neglect 16

  10. Safety 16

  11. Duration of Case Assignment 16

  12. Emergency Evacuation Plan and Procedures           16-18

  1. Screening, Training and Selection of Volunteers

    1. Screening 18-19

    2. Training 19-20

    3. Selection and Assignment 20-21

    4. Continued Education 21




  1. Confidentiality

    1. General 21

    2. Guidelines 21-23


  1. Supervision 23-24


  1. Reimbursement of Expenses 24


  1. Grievance Procedures

    1. Policy 24

    2. Procedure 25

    3. Appeals 25-26


  1. Remediation, Dismissal, & Removal of a Volunteer 25-28

  2. Returning Volunteers 28-29

  3. Receipt of Personnel Policies 30

































Message from the Executive Director

Ashley Holy


       Let me begin with thanking you for taking the time to be a part of something big.

 We recognize that there are other things you could be doing with your time, and the fact that you would choose to be here learning to advocate for children in difficult times of their lives tells me you are our kind of people.

     Your commitment today will impact a child’s life, as well as our community, indefinitely.


The devastating tragedy of child abuse and neglect is all around our community.  It exists in places seen and unseen. Our neighbors, coworkers, friends, and even our own families can have areas of their lives touched by child abuse and we may never know.  Children are in the most vulnerable times of their lives when, by no choice of their own, they have to deal with such horrible circumstances and are torn from everything that they have ever known. Finding themselves on a journey of confusion and impermanence.  CASA exists to make an impact on these children’s lives by being that adult who will step in and speak up for what is best for this child.


As a CASA volunteer you have the ability to make a big difference in a child’s life. Your voice becomes their voice, in a world where their voice is so easily lost.  Our court officials listen, and they want to hear what you have to say!  The information that you relay to them is valuable and helps in making sound decisions in the child’s best interest.  Your work will be held in the highest regards. Sounds like a lot? Don’t worry, our office team will provide you with all the help and assistance you need in your work as an advocate. This is a great community that you are now a part of, and we are here for you to lean on. Thank you for joining us in advocating for children. Welcome to the team!


Thank you again for dedicating your time to volunteer to a cause that is so worthy and important.  You are about to embark on an amazing journey that will change your life but, most importantly, the life of another.  You will have a positive influence on a child’s quest for permanency, safety, and love. You can change a child’s future.


 











I.  PROGRAM MISSION


The mission of the Court Appointed Special Advocate Association of Lafourche is to be an independent and objective presence in the courts to speak for the best interest of abused and neglected children of Lafourche Parish.  We promote and support trained community volunteers to represent our children and help secure for each child a nurturing, safe, and permanent home.  



II. PROGRAM VISION


CASA of Lafourche aspires to be an independent and objective presence in the courts to speak for the best interest of abused and neglected children of Lafourche Parish.  We promote and support trained community volunteers to represent our children and help secure for each child a permanent and safe home environment.



III. DEFINITION OF A CASA VOLUNTEER

Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) are everyday people who are appointed by judges to advocate for the best interests of abused and neglected children. A CASA volunteer advocates for each child until he or she is placed into a safe, permanent and nurturing home. The primary role of a CASA is to obtain information and report this information to the courts.



IV. CASA PROGRAM STANDARDS


  1. CASA PROGRAM


  1. CASA provides trained community volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who come into the court system as a result of abuse and/or neglect.  The agency recruits, screens, trains and supervises these volunteers.


  1. The CASA program is incorporated as a not-for-profit organization.


3) CASA of Lafourche has a mission, vision and purpose that is consistent with the mission, vision and purpose of the National CASA Association.


  1. CASA of Lafourche operates with access to legal counsel.


5) The management and operation of CASA of Lafourche assures adequate supervision for all volunteers.  The agency has a written personnel policies and procedures manual, screening requirements, training curriculum, and keeps relevant data on the operation of the program.


6)  CASA of Lafourche does not accept advocate applicants if they have a felony charge or have been convicted of, or have charges pending for, an act involving a sex offense, child abuse or neglect, or related acts that would pose risks to children       or to the CASA program’s credibility.  Acceptance of applicants with consecutive DWI/DUI charges will be decided by the Executive Director.


7) CASA of Lafourche is considered to be Mandated Reporters of Child Abuse or Neglect.  CASA of Lafourche will immediately report to the Office of Community Services (OCS) Child Protective Unit any situation where an advocate has reason to believe that a child is in imminent danger.   



i. Equal Opportunities

In recognition of its responsibility not only to its employees, but also to the community in which it serves, CASA reaffirms its continuing commitment to afford qualified individuals an equal opportunity to compete for employment and advancement.  To assure equal employment opportunity, there shall be no discrimination concerning any individual or group because of race, religion, national origin, age, sex, disability or veteran status.  CASA makes every effort to ensure its facility is free from barriers that restrict the employment of or use by physically challenged employees.


ii. Harassment Policy

CASA believes that all volunteers have the right to work in an environment free from any type of discrimination, including freedom from harassment on any protected basis.  CASA will not tolerate harassment of or discrimination against any employee by another employee, volunteer, supervisor or client for any reason including, but not limited to:  veteran status, race, religion, sex, marital status, national origin, physical or mental disability, age or political affiliation.  Additionally, use or non-use of tobacco products outside the workplace is a protected class in Louisiana and harassment or discrimination on this basis will not be tolerated.


CASA also prohibits sexual harassment of any employee by another employee, supervisor or client.  The purpose of this policy is to ensure that no employee is subject to harassment in the workplace.  Sexual harassment includes, but is not limited to:  unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors and/or verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature, including, but not limited to, drawings, pictures, jokes, teasing, uninvited touching, or other sexual comments.  Sexual harassment of an employee will not be tolerated.  Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination.


Any volunteer that feels he or she is a victim of any form of harassment described in this handbook must immediately report the matter to his/her supervisor or the Executive Director.  If the employee prefers not to discuss the matter with his/her supervisor, the employee may report the matter to the Executive Director.  CASA will investigate every reported incident as soon as possible.  Investigations will be conducted as confidentially as possible.


CASA understands that each such investigation requires a factual determination.  CASA also recognizes the serious impact that false accusations can have.  We trust that all employees will act in a mature and responsible manner in participating in such investigations.  No volunteer making a truthful complaint of perceived harassment will be disciplined or retaliated against.  Depending upon the outcome of the investigation, disciplinary action may be taken against the offending individual, up to and including, immediate termination of any and all volunteer services.


iii. Substance Abuse Policy

  1. Introduction

CASA of Lafourche has a strong commitment to provide a safe work environment and to establish policies promoting high standards of employee health and safety - this includes our expectations of our volunteers.  In keeping with this commitment, it is CASA’s intent to maintain a drug/alcohol-free work place and a drug/alcohol-free workforce.  Therefore, the sale, purchase, transfer, use or possession of any form of alcohol or other controlled substances by a volunteer while on CASA premises or while conducting CASA business is prohibited. Volunteer advocates will follow the same substance abuse policy and testing requests as employees which is located in employee policy manual available upon request.


  1. Policy

The following are strictly prohibited:


  1. Conducting any CASA business under the influence of intoxicants, narcotics or drugs ( i.e. visits, meetings court, etc.).


  1. Use, possession, manufacture, distribution, dispensation or trafficking of illegal narcotics or illegal drug or illegal drug paraphernalia in any manner on or off company property, before, during or after working hours.


  1. Use or possession of intoxicants in any manner on or off CASA property during working hours.


  1. Use of CASA property or a volunteer’s position with CASA, directly or indirectly, to manufacture, dispense, distribute or traffic narcotics or drugs.



  1. Prescription Drugs—Drugs prescribed by a physician for treatment of illness or disease.

    1. The use of drugs/medicines prescribed by a licensed physician for an individual employee is permitted provided the volunteer advises CASA that he/she is using prescribed drugs and provides CASA with assurance from a physician that such drug will not affect the work performance.


  1. CASA at all times reserves the right to have a licensed physician determine if use of a prescription drug or medication by a volunteer produces effects which may increase the risk of injury to the volunteer or others while working.


  1. If it is concluded that a prescribed drug will affect performance, CASA reserves the right to limit or suspend the work activity of the volunteer during the period that the physician advised that the volunteer’s ability to perform his/her job safely may be adversely affected by the consumption of such medication.


  1. Volunteers who have been informed that medication could cause adverse side effects while working or where medication indicates such warning, must inform their supervisor prior to using such substances on the job.





  1. CASA VOLUNTEER

  1. A CASA volunteer is an individual who has been screened and trained by a recognized CASA program and appointed by the Court to advocate for children who come into the Court as a result of abuse and/or neglect.  A volunteer reviews records; facilitates a prompt and thorough review of the case; and interviews appropriate parties in order to make recommendations on what would be in the best interests of the child.


  1. A CASA volunteer is of majority age (21) in the state of Louisiana, and has successfully passed screening requirements which include a written application, personal interview, personal references and criminal records check.


  1. A CASA volunteer has successfully completed 30 hours of pre-service training and 12 hours of continued training each year.


4) A CASA volunteer must make a commitment to the program for at least 24 months unless the case is closed beforehand.


5) A CASA volunteer does not become inappropriately involved in a case by engaging in activities which jeopardize the safety of a child, the integrity of the program, or the objectivity of the volunteer; or activities which are likely to result in a conflict of interest or expose the program or the volunteer to criminal or civil liability.


6) A CASA volunteer respects the right to privacy by keeping information that would identify parties involved in a CASA case confidential.    


  1. CERTIFICATE OF ABILITY

Any potential volunteer who indicates that they are under the care of a physician for any physical or psychological ailment which might impede their ability to work may be asked to present a certificate from the physician as to their ability to satisfactorily and safely perform their duties. Any volunteer who, after accepting an assignment with the organization, enters a course of treatment that might adversely impact upon the performance of their volunteer duties should consult with the Program Coordinator.


  1. FEEDBACK AND EVALUATION

      Volunteers shall receive periodic evaluations to review their work and progress. Evaluations will include an examination of the volunteer’s performance of position responsibility and a discussion of any suggestions the volunteer may have concerning the position or volunteer program.


  1. RECOGNITION AND OPPORTUNITIES OF ADVANCEMENT

Volunteer service is very valuable to CASA and we will recognize volunteers on both an informal and formal level. An annual volunteer recognition and appreciation banquet will be conducted to highlight and reward the contributions of volunteers to the organization.  Exemplary volunteers will be made aware of other volunteer opportunities available for which they may be interested in participating, and will be given opportunity for advancement for other volunteer positions. 


  1. VOLUNTEER RECORDS

A system of records will be maintained on each volunteer with the organization. The records will include volunteer application, volunteer agreement (many nonprofit organizations institute a volunteer agreement), and emergency information, dates of services, position held, duties performed and evaluation of work.  If a volunteer wishes to view their records, they must make an appointment with the Advocate Supervisor or Executive Director prior to the review.  If an addition or a correction is needed, it must be done with the approval of the Executive Director.  The volunteer's record may not leave the CASA office.  The volunteer's record will be maintained by the CASA staff for a period of not less than three years.  


  1. SCHEDULED VOLUNTEER TIME/RECORDS

A volunteer sign-in form will be present at each volunteer program or event, and volunteers should sign in and out each time they work on any project. 


  1. ABSENTEEISM

Volunteers should do their best to be present and on time for each event or activity for which they are scheduled. If you know that you will be late or absent, please contact the person in charge of the event or your supervisor at least 24 hours before you are expected to come or as soon as possible so that alternate plans can be made.


  1. MEDIA CONDUCT

Please be careful not to represent yourself as a spokesperson or representative for the organization under any circumstances without prior approval. Only the board president and executive director serve as spokespeople for CASA. Volunteers are to follow all procedures presented in the Online Communication and Social Media Guideline Policy. 



V.  ROLES AND RESPONSIBILITIES OF A CASA VOLUNTEER


  1. WHO TO INTERVIEW

  1. DCFS Caseworker 6.  Neighbors

2.  Child 7.  Teachers

  1. Foster Parents 8.  Therapists

  2. Biological Parents 9.  Doctors

  3. Relatives         10. Other Pertinent Parties


  1. MAINTAIN CONTACT AS FOLLOWS

  1. Visit the child(ren) at least once a month (before the 26th of each month) in their placement home. 


  1. Call and discuss the case with the DCFS Caseworker at least once a month.


  1. Contact and visit the biological parents (if applicable)  at least once a month.


  1. Contact the foster parents, caregivers, or facility staff at least once a month.


  1. Continuously update your supervisor throughout the month regarding information obtained and contacts made (typically once a week). 


C.   FOLLOW THE INTERVIEW GUIDELINES:

  1. Interviews should be done in person, unless otherwise dictated by time or distance.


  1. Present your CASA identification card or Order to Assign when interviewing a collateral about the case. 


  1. Be courteous when contacting others to schedule an appointment. Attempt to schedule an appointment 3 to 4 days in advance. This pertains to the DCFS caseworker also.  At the end of the interview, schedule an appointment for the next meeting (unless an unscheduled visit is deemed necessary.) If a “pop-up” visit is necessary, disregard the need to schedule an appointment, but always notify your supervisor of the need for the unscheduled visit. 


  1. SHARING OF INFORMATION – Information obtained about a case should only be shared with the Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, Executive Director, and DCFS. CASA is the receiver of information, not the giver of information. 


E.  PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT

  1. Accept supervision from the Advocate Supervisor and Executive Director including direction, guidance, job description, technical assistance and policy statements.


  1. Demonstrate an understanding of professional relationships and the ability to receive feedback in a non-personal manner.


3.   Refrain from personal criticism of other advocates or professionals.  


  1. Dress in attire proper for the occasion (if there are questions, ask your supervisor).


  1. Demonstrate courtesy and respect for those contacted on behalf of the             program (clients, professionals, and collateral sources).


  1. Resolve conflict constructively.  Problem solving starts with your supervisor and goes upward.


  1. Use designated channels of communications.  Written communications reflect the CASA program as well as yourself and must be on CASA of Lafourche stationary and have the Advocate Supervisor or Executive Director’s signature.


  1. Avoid emotional involvement with your case to not interfere with providing for the best interest of the children; maintain professional decorum.


  1. Realize and accept the fact that you serve at the pleasure of the court.


  1. A CASA volunteer is only allowed to use his/her role and responsibilities involved in the case assigned to him/her as appointed by the courts.  


  1. The line of communication between the CASA program and the court is through the Advocate Supervisor or Executive Director.


F. RELEASING INFORMATION ABOUT FOSTER PARENTS – DO NOT give the names, addresses, or phone numbers of foster parents to anyone.  This includes the biological parents and relatives.


G. MAINTAINING RECORDS

1.  Maintain complete records about the case in a timely manner.  This includes: 


  1. Documenting everything concerning the case (keep records of every phone call, visit, meeting, court hearing, etc).  When documenting contacts, the description should contain detailed facts about the conversation and any important details given regarding the case.  Observations seen should also be documented (examples include a description of the house where the child is placed, the demeanor of the child at a family visit, etc.).


  1. Maintaining a complete file of records.  This includes copies of DCFS records, court documents, therapist’s reports, doctor’s reports, etc.


  1. Giving Advocate Supervisor copies of all records.  These records will be placed in the CASA office file. Records should be given to the Advocate Supervisor monthly so that the office copy of the children's file will always be the same as the volunteer's copy of the children's file.  If the volunteer fails to submit documentation of first-hand information on the child(ren)'s case monthly, the volunteer will have to go through the remediation process as described in section XI and possible dismissal will occur.  


H.   COURT REPORTS – A CASA volunteer should follow these guidelines for court reports:


  1. Court reports must be written according to the guidelines in your CASA manual.


  1. Court reports must be submitted to the Advocate Supervisor 20 business days prior to court date for review by the Advocate Supervisor and/or Director.

 

3. The volunteer must discuss all recommendations concerning the case with   the Advocate Supervisor prior to submitting recommendations to the court.


  1. MEETINGS - Volunteers should attend all meetings regarding the child (i.e. DCFS               Family Team Conferences, TPR Meetings, etc.)  If the volunteer cannot attend a meeting, he/she must notify the Advocate Supervisor and DCFS Caseworker.  The volunteer should also make arrangements to get the minutes from the meeting or meet with the caseworker in order to get any new information regarding the child.


  1. ATTENDANCE OF COURT HEARINGS - Volunteers MUST attend all court hearings unless there are circumstances beyond his/her control.  If the volunteer cannot attend a court hearing he/she must notify the Advocate Supervisor in a timely manner so that other arrangements can be made.


  1. MONITORING CASE - A CASA monitors the case by visiting the child as often as necessary to observe whether the child’s essential needs are being met, and whether the judge’s orders are being carried out.


  1. RELATION TO PARTIES IN A CASE - A CASA volunteer cannot be related to any parties in a case assigned to him or her.


M.  EMPLOYMENT/CONFLICT OF INTEREST - A CASA volunteer cannot be employed in a position and/or agency that might result in a conflict of interest.


N.  PROVIDING SERVICES - A CASA volunteer cannot provide direct services to any parties that could lead to a conflict of interest or potential liability, or cause a child or family to become dependent on the CASA volunteer for services that should be provided by other agencies or organizations.  These services include, but are not limited to:


1. Having the child or any parties of the case over at your home or at the home of anyone you know.


2.  Giving legal advice, therapeutic counseling, diagnosing any party in the case, or providing/administering medication to any party in a case.


3.  Making placement arrangements for the child.


4.  Giving money or expensive gifts to the child or family.


5.  Making any promise to the child or family that cannot be provided by the CASA program.


  1. TRANSPORTING CHILD - A CASA volunteer should at NO time transport a child or other parties involved in the case in a vehicle or vessel driven or owned by you.


  1. ABIDING BY LAWS - A CASA volunteer shall abide by all laws and regulations governing his/her activities; must conduct all business in an honest, fair, professional and humane manner; may not use authority inappropriately and may not use CASA to promote personal gain.


Legal Liability: Volunteers agree to assume risk of any accident or injury to person or property, which may sustain in connection with CASA. In addition, volunteers agree to release and discharge CASA of any of its directors, officers, employees, partners, affiliates, and successors from any and all liability or responsibility for any such accident or injury. 



  1. REPORTING CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT - A CASA volunteer must report any incidents of child abuse or neglect to his/her CASA supervisor and/or appropriate authorities.  CASA of Lafourche is considered mandatory reporters (see your supervisor for information).


  1. SAFETY - A CASA volunteer is not required as part of his/her role or responsibility to visit any clients, witnesses, or any other person where the advocate does not feel safe or secure.  It is the responsibility of the staff to arrange alternatives for the advocate if requested.  When visiting an unsafe neighborhood, all staff members and advocates are encouraged to secure a police escort or to go with another staff member or advocate.


  1. DURATION OF CASE ASSIGNMENT - A CASA volunteer remains actively involved in a case until formally discharged by the court or the CASA program.




EMERGENCY EVACUATION CONTACT FOR VOLUNTEERS AND CASA CHILDREN


The CASA of Lafourche staff has a list of all the CASA children that have been assigned to them with emergency contact phone numbers listed.  The following procedures have been put into place in order to locate all the CASA children assigned to this program in the timeliest manner.


  1. The Executive Director will take the most current emergency contact list from the office.

  2. Each Supervisor will keep a current emergency contact phone number for each of their Volunteers.

  3. Each Volunteer will take their case file with them during evacuation in order to salvage the file in case the CASA office is destroyed.

  4. Each Supervisor will contact their volunteers to check on their safety and to ask the volunteers to check on the safety of the children assigned to them in each of their cases.  The Volunteers will use the emergency contact information they were given by their foster families and/or group homes.

  5. The Volunteers will be given all staff phone numbers, if needed, for the contact information.


There is also a State office phone number that can be called if the volunteers are having trouble locating their CASA children.  This phone could be helpful if there is an extreme disaster involving the destruction of the CASA office and/or the OCS office in Thibodaux.  The phone number for the Office of Community Services in Thibodaux is 985-447-0945.  The phone number for the Office of Community Services for the State of Louisiana is 1-888-524-3578 or 1-888-LA-HELPU.


Once the volunteers have located their CASA children, they should report their information to their Supervisor so that the Supervisor can document where they are located and the safety of their situation.



The following is the list of current employees and their personal information:


Executive Director:  Ashley Holy

Cell Number:  985-772-0419

E-mail address:  acholy@casalafourche.org

      

Program Coordinator:  Reagan Traigle

Cell Number:  

Cell Number:  985-526-6906

E-mail address:  rtraigle@casalafourche.org

      


 Advocate Supervisor: Claire Berthelot  

     Cell Number:  985-518-2739

     E-mail address:  cberthelot@casalafourche.org

    


Advocate Supervisor: Elizabeth Kornegay

Cell Number: 985-791-4810

E-mail address:  ekornegay@casalafourche.org


                                                            

Office Manager:  Cheryl Oubre

     Cell Number:  985-688-3554

    E-mail address:  coubre@casalafourche.org








VI. SCREENING, TRAINING & SELECTION OF VOLUNTEERS


  1. SCREENING

1. CASA of Lafourche requires that:

  1. An applicant submits written application containing information about educational background, employment history and personal experiences with child abuse.


  1. Provide at least three references from persons unrelated to the applicant.


  1. Attend a personal interview with a member of the CASA staff.


2. CASA of Lafourche conducts a formal security check of each applicant through the Thibodaux Police Department or court jurisdiction of their residence- within the last 7 years, the Louisiana State Police, the National Sex Offender Registry, the Department of Children and Family Services Child Abuse Registry, Social Security Number Verification, and a national check through the FBI or a National Database. All prospective and current volunteers are required to authorize the CASA program to secure these checks. These background checks will be renewed every four years that the volunteer remains active with the CASA program. Documentation of each completed background check will be placed in the volunteer's file. 


If the prospective volunteer has lived in another country, state, county, or jurisdiction in the past seven (7) years that is not covered by the current national, state, and local criminal background checks utilized, the CASA program will secure background screenings from the appropriate country, state, county, or jurisdiction in which the person has lived for the previous seven (7) years.  The same also applies to checks against the child abuse registry or child protective services.


Any prospective or current volunteer who refuses to sign a release of information form or submit the required information or fingerprints for any of the aforementioned required checks can be rejected or discharged.


Any applicant found to have been convicted of, or having charges pending for a felony or misdemeanor involving a sex offense, child abuse or neglect, or related acts that would pose risks to children or the CASA program’s credibility is not accepted as a CASA volunteer



3. A volunteer cannot be sworn-in as a CASA volunteer until the CASA program receives three references and until all background checks described above are completed and filed in the volunteer's file.







  1. TRAINING


1.  CASA of Lafourche provides 30 hours of training for new volunteers through the    use of the Comprehensive Training Curriculum provided by the National CASA Association.  


2. Training sessions include, but are not limited to, policies and procedures of the CASA program; Department of Children and Family Services; Juvenile Court; dynamics and human behavior associated with abuse and neglect; relevant local, state and federal laws; permanency planning and family preservation; cultural diversity; communication and interviewing skills; and the roles and responsibilities of the CASA volunteer.


3.  Each new volunteer is provided with a training manual, copies of pertinent laws, regulations and policies, and statement of commitment form clearly stating the minimum expectations of the volunteer once trained. 


4.  Training sessions are conducted by program staff and include a variety of guest speakers during training, including program staff, attorneys, agency representatives, volunteers and other professionals.


5. In - Service (Continued Education)

i. Several continuing education opportunities will be offered throughout the year pertaining to relevant topics that will continue to prepare Volunteers to work their cases. 


ii. Our newsletter also provides opportunity for continued education on a monthly basis: CASA prints a monthly newsletter that includes programmatic updates, such as:

  • New stats for our children

    • How many are in care 

  • Updated information about volunteers, including: 

  • The hours they spent on their cases 

  • How many miles are driven on behalf of our CASA children 

  •      How many face to face contacts are made 

The newsletter also offers information on the volunteer of the month, a calendar for the upcoming month with scheduled events for CASA of Lafourche. An In-Service reading Selection is included that volunteers can earn 30 minutes towards their continued education requirements for reading and reviewing. Dates are also given for the next In-Service training; these are provided by CASA of Lafourche each month for the volunteers. CASA of Lafourche is open to any suggestions to add to our newsletter informational items that might be beneficial or pertinent to our program. The deadlines for entry are 7(seven) business days before the end of the month. The entries are acceptable and preferred via e-mail but will also accept in writing via U.S. mail, drop off at CASA office or via the phone if necessary. 





  1. SELECTION AND APPOINTMENT OF VOLUNTEERS


1.  CASA of Lafourche notifies all applicants of the status of their application.  The selection procedure ensures that those that are not selected are treated with dignity, respect, and, if possible, referred to alternative volunteer opportunities more suitable for them.


2.  A presiding judge swears in CASA volunteers.


3. CASA volunteers are assigned at the earliest stage of the court proceeding as possible by order of the court through an Order of Assignment that will be delivered to the court by the CASA of Lafourche program.  The Order of Assignment will include the volunteer's name, the children's name, DOB, and docket number that the volunteer is advocating for, and a description of the rights of the volunteer.  The Judge will sign the Order and the Clerk of Courts will then forward the Order to all parties and agencies on the case including the CASA program.  The Order to Assign will be maintained in the child's file for the duration of the child's case.


4. The number of cases assigned to a volunteer is high enough to maintain the interest of the volunteer and low enough to ensure quality work.


5.  CASA of Lafourche is conscious of ethnic, cultural, and religious diversity when appointing volunteers to cases, and selects volunteers based on experience, understanding and skills to deal with these considerations.


  1. All parties and agencies involved are notified of the volunteer’s assignment.


  1. The volunteer is given complete and immediate access to all records and 

  1. documents pertaining to the case.

D. CONTINUED EDUCATION –


    Volunteers are required to have 12 hours of continued education a year. The number of in-service training hours required for newly trained volunteers will be adjusted (or prorated) dependent on the time of year the volunteer is trained. CASA will provide opportunities for ongoing training and professional development based on available resources. Continued Education classes will be offered no less than quarterly to all volunteers. Volunteers are highly encouraged to participate in these training and development opportunities offered. CASA of Lafourche is open to any suggestions of topics that may further assist volunteers with their responsibilities to the organization. 









VII.  CONFIDENTIALITY


A.  GENERAL


1. A CASA volunteer shall hold in confidence all pertinent information.


2. The volunteer will not violate confidential relationships between CASA, its’   volunteers, related agencies, courts and all parties interviewed. 


3. Volunteers will not remove any written records from the CASA office without expressed permission.


4. When the case is completed or in the event of dismissal, volunteers will return all   records and documents to the CASA office and complete a Volunteer Case Completion and Withdrawal Agreement.


B.  GUIDELINES - The volunteer shall adhere to the following guidelines with respect to maintaining confidentiality and respecting the privacy of others in all matters relating to an assigned case.  The guidelines are set out below.  They govern circumstances in which the CASA volunteer request or receives information.  However, these guidelines cannot cover every possible situation that may arise.  Any questions and/or concerns the CASA volunteer has regarding confidentiality or the application of this policy should be discussed with the CASA Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or Executive Director.  These will be resolved on a case-by-case basis.


  1. Cases involving parties who are known to the CASA program as being HIV positive, having AIDS and/or having other Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) are governed by an additional confidentiality protocol to which the volunteer must adhere.  If, after accepting a case, the CASA volunteer learns it involves an STD, the CASA volunteer should immediately contact the Advocate Supervisor to obtain protocol.  


  1. In requesting information in the course of an investigation, a CASA volunteer may need to obtain information from doctors, psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers, attorneys, clergy, teachers, or other professionals who have a protected relationship status with a party or the child.  The signed Order to Appoint should cover most cases.  By statute, there are limitations on the disclosure of information a professional receives during the course of his/her relationship with a client or patient.  Many professionals also have ethical principles which govern their ability to disclose information (for example, attorneys are bound by Rules of Professional Conduct; doctors, psychologists, and social workers also have ethical codes).  The professional has no authority to provide any information to a CASA volunteer without the express permission of the client or a court order.


  1. If it is necessary to obtain any privileged/confidential information about someone who is directly related to the case but is not the child(ren), the CASA volunteer must obtain from that person a written release of information which allows the professional, hospital or treatment center to discuss the matter with the CASA volunteer.


  1. While a person may sign a release allowing the CASA volunteer to obtain confidential information, he/she may not want to authorize disclosure to the other parties to the case and/or their attorneys.  The CASA volunteer should review the signed release form very carefully and seek guidance from the Advocate Supervisor if the CASA volunteer has any questions at all.


  1. The CASA volunteer is not allowed to disseminate documents to any of the parties, their attorneys, and/or collateral sources which are covered by state and/or federal confidentiality laws.  These documents may include drug and alcohol evaluation/records; involuntary mental health treatment and rape crisis center information; and some criminal histories.  Those covered by federal law usually are stamped: “This information is protected by Federal law (and prohibits you from making any further disclosure).  A general authorization for the release of medical or other information is NOT sufficient for this purpose.”


  1. The CASA volunteer shall never discuss an assigned case for purely conversational purposes, particularly in specific terms, with anyone.


  1. The CASA volunteer should not promise a child or any party to the assigned case that his/her statements will be kept secret or confidential.


  1. The CASA volunteer must disclose confidential information learned during the course of an investigation in three circumstance:

    1. When consulting with the Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or Executive Director who must be provided all significant case specifics known to the CASA volunteer


  1. When ordered by the court in a hearing or trial


  1. When the CASA volunteer thinks that there is reasonable cause to believe that a child has suffered physical and/or sexual abuse


  1. A CASA volunteer may disclose confidential information and discuss case specifics:

    1. When the CASA volunteer consults with a professional service provider (medical personnel, mental health specialist, social worker, etc.) who is providing services to the child(ren) & has agreed to the professional’s disclosure or because their client signed a Release-of-Information Form


  1. When the petitioner and respondent agree or when the court orders the disclosure






VIII. SUPERVISION


1. The program staff is easily accessible and makes every effort to provide quick and thorough guidance to the CASA volunteer when he/she is assigned a case.


2. The Advocate Supervisor holds regularly scheduled case conferences with the volunteer to review the progress of the case.


  1. The Advocate Supervisor processes the volunteer’s report to the Court and 

considers the volunteer’s concerns and recommendations in a timely manner so as not to jeopardize the best interests of the child.


  1. The volunteer should submit all recommendations concerning the case to the Advocate Supervisor in a signed, written report.  The Advocate Supervisor shall not alter the report without the consent of the CASA volunteer.


  1. If a conflict regarding a case arises between the Advocate Supervisor and the volunteer, the grievance shall be heard and a final determination be made by the Executive Director.


  1. The Advocate Supervisor will supervise each volunteer through frequent and meaningful contact with the volunteer.  Frequent holds the definition of a minimum monthly contact by phone, face-to-face, or email and face-to-face at least quarterly.  Meaningful holds the definition of having discussion and guidance regarding the current activities of the child's case and how it relates to the best interest of the child(ren).  


  1. The Advocate Supervisor conducts regularly scheduled quarterly staffings with the volunteers.  During the scheduled quarterly staffing, the Advocate Supervisor will complete a Quarterly Advocate Supervision Form with the volunteer.  The Quarterly Advocate Supervision Form will give the volunteer an opportunity to update the Advocate Supervisor on any new facts on the case and the Advocate Supervisor will then guide the volunteer in all areas of the case including education, placement, health, parental case plans, and visitation with parents and siblings.  The Advocate Supervisor will discuss with the volunteer goals to be completed within each of these areas for the next three months.  A date will be set for the next quarterly staffing to be held and both the Advocate Supervisor and volunteer will sign the form.  This form must be completed in-person with the Advocate Supervisor and volunteer.  





IX. REIMBURSEMENT OF EXPENSES


When agreeing to the role of a CASA, you are agreeing to having the availability to visit your child at least once a month, and you are agreeing to the ability to provide your own transportation to complete and meet these requirements.


1. CASA volunteers may be reimbursed for mileage incurred while traveling outside of the local parishes of Terrebonne or Lafourche,  as a result of investigating their case if specific criteria are met. 

  • The volunteer must submit documentation to show that the expected travel is going to be a hardship. 

  • The volunteer must be traveling more than 20 miles each way in all travel that is requesting reimbursement.

  • The program has available funds or access to funds specifically for volunteer travel reimbursement.

  • The volunteer has confirmed with the advocate supervisor that they will be able to be reimbursed for the travel BEFORE it happens (each trip).


 Note: the amount of money reimbursed per mile may vary according to volunteer travel rates at the time and area of the trip.


If the travel qualifies for reimbursement, the volunteer will be given a mileage reimbursement form which is to be completed and returned to the Advocate Supervisor no later than the last day of the month. Reimbursement checks will be written the week of the 1st and 15th of each month.





X. GRIEVANCE

  1. POLICY

It shall be the policy of CASA of Lafourche to provide procedural protection against arbitrary and unjust actions.  Persons who feel they have been subjected to discriminatory action shall have the right to present a grievance to CASA of Lafourche for both prompt consideration and satisfactory resolution.




B.  PROCEDURE

1.  Presentation of Grievance

A grievant must present the grievance to the Executive Director.


If the grievance involves an action by the Executive Director, the volunteer should address the grievance to one of the members of the Executive Committee.

2. Content and Time Limit

The grievance must:

  • Be in writing;

  • Contain sufficient detail to identity and clarify the basis for the grievance;

  • Specify the relief requested;

  • Be presented within 30 days of act or occurrence, or of the date the person became aware of the act.

3.  Rejection of Grievance

Upon receipt of a grievance, the Executive Director will determine whether the grievance is timely, covered by the grievance system.

The Executive Director may reject the grievance if it was not filed within the time limits specified for filing or consists entirely of a matter(s) exempt from coverage under the grievance system.

4.  Treatment of Grievance

Unless the Executive Director rejects the grievance, an attempt will be made to resolve the grievance.  The Executive Director will consider the grievance as promptly as possible and inform the grievant of the decision and/or proposed resolution within 15 working days.  The Executive Director's reply must be in writing and effectively communicated to the grievant.  The communication must inform the grievant of the right to file an appeal of the decision within 7 working days and state the name of the person charged with receiving such appeals.  The grievant will be due all notification rights.


C.   APPEALS

  1. Filing of an Appeal

Any grievant dissatisfied with the decision of the Executive Director will have 7 working days to file an appeal.  All appeals must be considered and scheduled for hearing as promptly as possible.



  1. Appeals Panel

An Appeals Panel will meet for the purpose of reviewing the decision of the Executive Director.  This panel will be made up of the Board of Directors Executive Committee (President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer.)  

  1. Conduct of Hearing

The Appeals Panel will meet for the purpose of hearing the appeal and will conduct the hearing according to the following:

  • The panel must consider all documents and testimony related to the grievance including statements of the grievant, witnesses, relevant record, and report.


  • The grievant will be provided with the opportunity to make a personal appearance before the panel.  However, other attendants will be limited to persons determined by the Panel to have a direct connection with the grievance.


  • The Panel may exclude any person from the hearing (including the grievant) for rebellious conduct or misbehavior that obstructs the hearing.


  • The hearing will be conducted so as to bring out pertinent facts.


  • Parties will have the opportunity to cross-examine witnesses who appear and testify.


  • Testimony is under oath or affirmation.


  • Rules of evidence are not strictly applied and decisions on the admissibility of evidence or testimony are made by the Panel.


  1. Decision of the Appeals Panel

The Appeals Panel will issue a decision within 7 working days of the hearing.





XI. REMEDIATION, DISMISSAL, AND REMOVAL OF A VOLUNTEER


A CASA volunteer shall be dismissed from the program by the Executive Director when it is apparent that the advocates continued participation in the program is of detriment to the program’s philosophy or to the policies of CASA. 


Because of the nature of the work CASA Advocates undertake and the level of responsibility vested in the program, it is necessary to outline actions which may result in immediate dismissal of a CASA Advocate. 


Parties described below include anyone that you are in contact with solely because of your advocacy with CASA. Examples include but are not limited to: child (both assigned and siblings), biological parents, caregivers, caregivers’ relatives, and relatives of the children or biological parents. 


These violations include but are not limited to:

  1. Falsifying information on the application or misrepresenting facts during the screening process.  

  2. Breach of confidentiality. Information obtained about a case should only be shared with the Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, Executive Director, and DCFS. CASA is the receiver of information, not the giver of information.  

    1. Information obtained about a case should not be shared with your friends and relatives.

    2. Do not allow your friends or relatives to review any document, court report, letter, or contact logs.   

    3. Do not share identifying information such as names, addresses, phone numbers, or indicators of parties involved in the case. 

    4. Your friends and relatives cannot ride with you to any visit involving a CASA case. 

    5. Your friends and relatives cannot attend the visit, wait in the car, or drop you off to the visit. This includes visits with children, foster parents, biological parents, and any other party involved in the case. 

    6. Friends and relatives cannot meet your CASA child, or any other party involved in the CASA case, even for birthday parties.     

  3. Releasing information about one party of the case to another party of the case. 

    1. Do not give the names, addresses, or phone numbers of foster parents to anyone, including the biological parents, relatives of the children, and former foster parents.

    2. Do not give the names, address, or phone numbers of biological parents to anyone, including foster parents. 

  4. Failure to report child abuse.

  5. Pending allegations of child abuse or neglect against the advocate.

  6. Falsifying information in a court report.

  7. Representing the program in a public forum without prior permission from the Executive Director.

  8. Speaking to any of the following about a case without accompaniment or consent from your Advocate Supervisor: the children’s attorney, the parents’ attorney, the judge, all court personnel, DCFS Supervisors or DCFS management, DCFS Bureau of General Counsel attorney, DCFS Centralized Intake to report child abuse, and DCFS child abuse investigators. 

  9. Taking action without program approval which endangers the child or is outside the role or responsibility of the CASA program.

  10. Violation of program policies, state, or local laws while serving as an Advocate.

  11. Providing direct services to any parties that could lead to a conflict of interest or potential liability or cause a child or family to become dependent on the CASA volunteer for services that should be provided by other agencies or organizations.

  12. A conflict of interest arises that cannot be resolved. A CASA volunteer cannot be related to any parties in their assigned case. A CASA volunteer cannot be employed in any position or agency giving services to any party in their assigned case. A CASA volunteer cannot hire or employ any parties involved in the case.  

  13. Endangering a child (CASA child or other).

  14. Engaging in ex-parte communication, both written and verbal (contact with the Judge outside of a Court proceeding).

  15. Failing to demonstrate an ability to effectively carry out assigned duties.

  16. Alcohol or substance abuse.

  17. Failure to maintain objectivity with your case. (You must avoid emotional involvement with your case to not interfere with providing advocacy for the best interest of the children.)

  18. Involvement in personal actions that the CASA program deems inappropriate or unethical, which represents the CASA program poorly and discredits the CASA program in the community.  

  19. Under no circumstance should you do the following:

    1. Transporting a child or other parties of the case in a vehicle or vessel driven or owned by you. 

    2. Having the child or any parties of the case over at your home or at the home of anyone you know.

    3. Spending the night in the child’s home or in the home of any other party of the case.

    4. Going on vacation with the child or any other party of the case. 

    5. Giving legal advice, therapeutic counseling, diagnosing any party in the case, or providing/administering medication to any party in a case.

    6. Making placement arrangements for the child.

    7. Giving money or expensive gifts to the child or any parties of the case. 

    8. Making any promise to the child or family that cannot be provided by the CASA program. 

    9. Inviting any party in your case to attend your church, or attend any family function, church function, or work function.


When an Advocate has been found to violate one of the above policies, (s)he will have the opportunity to provide an explanation of the behavior.  Where vulnerable children are involved, judgment calls will be made on the basis of protecting the child’s best interest.


Poor performance as an Advocate may also be grounds for dismissal.  


 The following are descriptions of performance that when not upheld by the Advocate are subject to discussion with the Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or Executive Director in order to develop an Advocate Corrective Action any may lead to dismissal from the case and/or program:


  1. Failure to maintain consistent contact with your CASA child(ren) on a monthly basis face-to-face for two consecutive months (immediate Advocate Corrective Action will be developed). 

  2. Failure to obtain firsthand, fact based information on all parties involved in the case by making contacts, visits, and requesting records from service providers and schools. This includes contacts and visitation with biological parents monthly.  

  3. Failure to attend a court hearing (immediate Advocate Corrective Action will be developed).

  4. Deviating from the facts and recommendations written in the CASA court report before, during, and after a court hearing.

  5. Deviating from the advocacy direction and guidance given by your Advocate Supervisor and the CASA program. At no time should a personal opinion regarding the case, program, or other agencies be discussed with any individual outside the CASA staff. 

  6. Failure to submit court reports on time (20 business days prior to hearing).

  7. Failure to maintain monthly documentation of contact logs in OPTIMA. 

  8. Failure to maintain meaningful contact with supervisor on a frequent basis.  Frequent holds the definition of a minimum monthly contact by phone, in-person, or email and face-to-face at least quarterly.  Meaningful holds the definition of having discussion regarding the current activities of the child's case and how it relates to the best interest of the child(ren). Advocate Corrective Action will be developed after two consecutive months of no meaningful contact with supervisor.

  9. Failure to meet in-service training requirements (12 in-service hours per year).

  10. Failure to maintain professional conduct as outlined in the Volunteer Policy Manual section V. E.  


In the event of a prolonged lapse in performance as described above, the Advocate Supervisor, Program Coordinator, or Executive Director will create an Advocate Corrective Action with the CASA Advocate which may require the Advocate to participate in one or more of the following forms of remediation: 

  • Increased supervision and guidance from the Program Coordinator

  • Re-assignment to other Advocate opportunities within the CASA program

  • The advocate may attend upcoming training sessions related to the deficiencies

  • The advocate may take a leave


A CASA Advocate must inform the supervisor if he/she determines that he/she is unable to adequately perform their duties.


There may be an instance when the Executive Director feels as though a Volunteer Corrective Action should not go into effect, and in this case the volunteer will be dismissed.


A CASA Exit Interview form must be filled out between the volunteer and Advocate Supervisor or Executive Director to be placed in the volunteer's file.


In all instances of a volunteer's removal from a case, whether by dismissal, voluntarily getting off of the case, or removal because the case closed, an Order to Remove will be delivered to the court by the CASA program.  The Order to Remove will consist of the child(ren)'s name, DOB, docket number, volunteer's name, and the reason for the volunteer's removal.  The Order will describe the volunteer's responsibility to return within 30 days the CASA volunteer's ID badge, all documents, records, and notes pertaining to the case and collected by the assigned CASA volunteer during his/her assignment.  The Clerk of Courts will forward a copy of the Order to all parties and agencies involved in the case, including the CASA program. The Order to Remove will be maintained in the child's file for the duration of the case.


Corrective Action Plan Policy

Corrective Action Plan for CASA Volunteers

Purpose
 This policy establishes the process for addressing unprofessional or inappropriate behavior by CASA volunteers to ensure high-quality and effective advocacy for children and families. The corrective action plan aims to provide guidance and support to advocates while maintaining the integrity and professionalism of the CASA program.

Resignation and Removal from a Case
 CASA volunteers are appointed by a judge and serve until relieved by the court or the CASA program. Volunteers who recognize their inability or unwillingness to continue on their assigned case must communicate their concerns to their supervisor. If no resolution is reached, the advocate’s resignation will be accepted, and staff will request a Vacate order, notifying all parties involved. All verbal resignations must be followed up in writing and placed in the advocate’s file. The circumstances and manner of the resignation will be considered in determining the advocate’s ability to return as an active volunteer in the future.

Addressing Unprofessional or Inappropriate Behavior
 All reports of unprofessional or inappropriate behavior by a CASA volunteer will be reviewed by the Advocate Supervisor and Program Director. The advocate will be given the opportunity to respond to allegations and present relevant evidence or explanations before a decision is made regarding their continued service.

Corrective Action Plan Process

  1. Investigation and Review

    • Upon receiving a report of misconduct, the Advocate Supervisor and Program Director will review the allegations.

    • The advocate will be informed of the concerns and given an opportunity to respond.

    • If necessary, additional information may be gathered from relevant parties.

  2. Determination of Action

    • If the allegations do not warrant dismissal but require improvement, a corrective action plan will be implemented.

    • If the behavior warrants dismissal, the advocate will be notified in person whenever possible, followed by written notification.

  3. Implementation of the Corrective Action Plan

    • The corrective action plan will outline the specific concerns, expected improvements, and the timeframe for compliance.

    • The advocate will receive written documentation detailing the required actions and any support available to assist in their compliance.

    • A probationary period may be established, during which the advocate’s performance and adherence to the plan will be monitored.

  4. Follow-up and Evaluation

    • The Advocate Supervisor will conduct follow-up meetings to assess progress.

    • If the advocate successfully meets the requirements of the corrective action plan, they will be reinstated to full service.

    • If the advocate fails to meet the corrective measures, further disciplinary action, including dismissal, may be taken.

Notification of Dismissal
 If dismissal is warranted, the advocate will receive a confidential memorandum detailing the reasons for dismissal. Notice will be provided to all parties to the case, informing them that the advocate will no longer be serving on the case.

This policy ensures that CASA volunteers are held to high standards while offering opportunities for correction and growth when appropriate.






XII. RETURNING INACTIVE VOLUNTEERS/TRANSFER VOLUNTEERS



VOLUNTEERS TRANSFERRED FROM ANOTHER CASA PROGRAM


National CASA 7. B. 16.  A qualified CASA volunteer who transfers to a new program must complete the full application and screening process.   


National CASA 7. B. 2.   A qualified CASA volunteer who transfers to a new program must complete, at a minimum, training regarding the local court, laws, program policies and procedures, investigation and report writing.


Minimum training includes: Orientation, Chapter 2, and Chapter 8 & Chapter 9



VOLUNTEERS TRAINED BY CASA OF LAFOURCHE WHO HAVE BEEN DISMISSED 


National CASA 7. B. 3.  The program has a policy regarding the reactivation of volunteers who have been inactive for more than one year.  The policy shall include guidelines under which a volunteer would not have to be trained.  The program shall document the specific information when reactivating a volunteer without retraining.


Background Checks MUST be resubmitted on any volunteer who has been dismissed and is reinstated.


  1. CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH THE VOLUNTEER WOULD NOT HAVE TO COMPLETE TRAINING (One or more of the following :)


  • Volunteer was assigned to a case and performed exceptionally in that case in the immediate year prior to becoming inactive. 

  • Volunteer was removed from a case due to unforeseen circumstances (i.e. family emergency, volunteer illness, etc.) not due to a lack advocate’s performance in the immediate year prior to becoming inactive.

  • Volunteer left the program for any reason but was in good standing at the discretion of the Executive Director.


*These Circumstances Must be documented in the volunteer personnel file



  1. CIRCUMSTANCES IN WHICH THE VOLUNTEER WOULD HAVE TO COMPLETE TRAINING


  • Volunteer never accepted a case during volunteer tenure.

  • Volunteer performance in previously assigned case was unsatisfactory.

  • Volunteer had not been assigned to a case in the immediately preceding 2 years of becoming inactive.



RECEIPT OF POLICY AND PROCEDURE MANUAL


I have received, read and understood the policies and practices in the CASA of Lafourche Volunteer Policies and Procedures.  I understand that this manual replaces any and all prior handbooks, policies and practices of CASA.


I agree to abide by the policies and procedures contained herein.  I understand that the policies and procedures contained in this manual may be added to, deleted or changed by CASA at any time.  


If I have any questions regarding the content or interpretation of this handbook, I will bring them to the attention of my supervisor, Program Coordinator, or the Executive Director.



________________________________ ______________________

VOLUNTEER SIGNATURE DATE




________________________________ ______________________

SUPERVISOR SIGNATURE DATE