1. Can we take our casa child on a family outing?

​In most cases, your family members have not gone through CASA volunteer training and are not held to the same confidentiality parameters. CASA volunteers should not take their CASA child on family outings or invite them to visit the CASA’s home. It would be a breach of confidentiality.

2. should we buy our casa child gifts?

• Department of Family and Children Services (DFCS) is responsible for providing financial assistance for clothing and other basic needs for children in foster care. You do not have to buy your CASA kid anything nor are you expected to provide gifts. IF you choose to provide your CASA kid with any gifts, a good rule of thumb is:
  • If I run this over with my car and it gets destroyed, will I be upset?
  • If the answer is yes, then it is too expensive and you should refrain from gifting it.
    

• Also be sure that anything you gift your CASA kid is something they are allowed to have in their placement (e.g. some placements do not allow electronics/phones)

3. What are the guidelines about touching or hugging my casa child?

Because the children that CASA volunteers work with have suffered abuse and trauma, it is always recommended that the CASA volunteer refrain from physical touch unless the child initiates the contact. As a relationship is established, the child may be open to a hug, but the CASA should first ask if the child is comfortable with it; do not attempt to hug a child unless they have invited you to do so.