Reply to Volunteering ain't all it's cut out to be.

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Reply to "Volunteering ain't all it's cut out to be."

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Look at becoming a CASA.[/quote]

This. Serious commitment, well run programs, you make a profound difference in a child's life.

Not for everyone, but one of the single best things I ever did with my time and energy.

County based but you can find your local chapter and tons of info here: https://nationalcasagal.org/
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Great national organization but the Montgomery County program rejects most people who apply. They have applicants sit through the classes and then turn down most people and won’t even tell them why.

It’s like a club, unfortunately.
[/quote]

This is not true.

Montgomery County program is actively seeking volunteers (there are always more kids to serve). They do have a very robust screening program, as they should. They will turn people down for many good reasons, and might not explain why as very sensitive information or feelings could be at play.

Reasons why people might not be accepted and might not be given an explicit explanation:
- references felt they were not a good fit for the program
- personal feelings (or agenda) the individual was unable to put aside
- personal history that could color an individual's ability to be unbiased/objective
- individual really wants to be a foster or adoptive parent and is hoping that the CASA role would be a means to an end
- observed behavior/interactions during the training sessions 
- individual only willing to work with children of specific demographics

It is not a "club" - you don't develop strong connections with other volunteers, you aren't selected based on social desirability, and it isn't designed to broaden your social network. It is very serious work that is undertaken, and people bring their own baggage to the work. So they have to rigorously screen in order to protect the kids and the integrity of the program. Part of what makes it such a rewarding volunteer experience is that it is serious work, and there is a well-trained professional staff overseeing everything.

I am very sorry if the pp was rejected by CASA, but if they weren't given a reason then something occurred to indicate they would not be a good fit in this role.

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