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Become a Volunteer

It doesn’t take a law degree — it takes someone willing to be there.

CAJA volunteer advocates are trained, everyday people who commit to one child’s case — speaking up for their best interests until it’s resolved. No prior experience required.

Start Your Application
What It Takes

Five requirements. That’s it.

21+

Be at least 21 years old

✓

Pass a background check

4

Complete a 35-hour, 4-week pre-service training

10

Commit ~10 hours a month

1yr

1-year minimum commitment

Questions before you apply? Email us at volunteer@caja4kids.org

Why It Matters

What a CAJA volunteer actually does

When you become a volunteer with CAJA, you’re not filling out paperwork from a distance — you’re the one consistent adult a child in foster care can count on. CAJA follows the national CASA/GAL model, where trained community volunteers are appointed directly by a judge to represent a child’s best interests throughout their case.

As a CAJA volunteer, you’ll get to know your assigned child, talk with everyone involved in their case — parents, teachers, caseworkers, doctors — and bring what you learn back to the court in clear, factual reports. It’s not about legal expertise; it’s about consistency, patience, and genuinely showing up. Nationally, the CASA/GAL model has helped shorten the time children spend in foster care and connects them to a safe, permanent home faster. Learn more about the national CASA/GAL model.

Not sure yet if you’re ready to become a volunteer? Read more about CAJA’s mission and impact in Madison County, or reach out with any questions before you apply.

Become a CAJA volunteer advocate for a child in foster care
What to Expect

From application to your first case

1

Apply online

Fill out the application below — takes about 10 minutes.

2

Meet with CAJA

We’ll follow up to schedule a short in-person interview.

3

Complete training

A 35-hour, 4-week pre-service training covers everything you need to know.

4

Get matched

You’re paired with a child’s case and supported by CAJA staff throughout.

Children with a CAJA volunteer spend 8 months less in foster care, on average, than those without one.

Start Your Application
Apply Now

Volunteer Application

Takes about 10 minutes. We’ll follow up by phone or email to schedule an interview once we’ve reviewed it.

Sex
Have you ever been convicted of a crime or violation, other than a minor traffic offense?
Did you graduate high school or pass the high school equivalency test?
Did you graduate from a 2-year or 4-year college or higher?
Are you currently employed?
Are you willing to commit approximately 10 hours per month for at least one year?
Are you willing to complete a 35-hour, 4-week pre-service training?
Please include the following: First Name, Last Name, Phone Number, Relationship to Applicant.
Please include the following: First Name, Last Name, Phone Number, Relationship to Applicant.
Please include the following: First Name, Last Name, Phone Number, Relationship to Applicant.