GET INVOLVED
Become an Advocate
GET INVOLVED
Become an Advocate
Ready to Make a Difference in the Life of a Child Who Needs You?
To begin your life-changing journey as a CASA Advocate, follow the steps below. If you have any questions please contact Sharie Dodge, Advocate Engagement Manager, by sending an email.
Attend an Information Session
CASA of McHenry County holds informational sessions that allow you to learn more about the Advocate role, exploring the requirements, commitments, and impact you can make. Join us at one of our upcoming sessions listed below to discover the answers to all your questions:
Tuesday, April 1, 6:00 - 6:45pm
Zoom Register Here
Wednesday, April 9, 10:00am - Noon (drop in!)
AROMA Coffee & Wine, 77 E Woodstock, Crystal Lake
Wednesday, April 24, 5:00 - 7:00pm (drop in!)
AROMA Coffee & Wine, 77 E Woodstock, Crystal Lake
Thursday, May 15, 7:30 - 8:15pm
Zoom Register Here
Monday, June 16, 6:30 - 7:15pm
Zoom Register Here
Fill Out an Application
If you are interested in joining an upcoming training class, complete your application. Once we have reviewed it, we will contact you to schedule an initial interview.
Attend Advocate Training
Attend a 7-week training class with others interested in becoming an Advocate like you! Trainings are generally held on weekday evenings, once a week for 2.5 hours each evening, followed by 2-3 hours of pre-work at home. (See the dates listed below.) Learn about the experiences of a child in foster care and how you can best advocate for their best interests.
“It is SO important that these children have their voices heard in the court system. You can definitely make a life-changing difference for a child. I have seen that over the past 14 years.”
– Evey, Volunteer Advocate, served on 8 cases with 11 children
“I’m excited because I think it’s an opportunity to really help a child in need, a situation to be effective. I feel I have the training behind me and the confidence to do this!”
– Felicia, before taking her first case as a Volunteer Advocate
Upcoming Advocate Training Sessions
Spring ’25 Training
Introduction: Wed., Apr 16 – 5:45pm – 7:00pm
Session 1: Wed., Apr 23 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 2: Wed., Apr 30 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 3: Wed., May 7 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 4: Wed., May 14 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 5: Wed., May 21 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 6: Wed., May 28 – 5:45pm – 9:00pm
Swear-In: Frid., May 30 – 8:00am – 8:45am
Fall ’25 Training
Introduction: Thurs., Sept 11 – 5:45pm – 7:00pm
Session 1: Thurs., Sept 18 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 2: Thurs., Sept 25 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 3: Thurs., Oct 2 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 4: Thurs., Oct 16 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 5: Thurs., Oct 23 – 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 6: Thurs., Oct 30 – 5:45pm – 9:00pm
Swear-In: Fri., Oct 31 – 8:00am – 8:45am (TBC)
(Note: no class 10/9/25 – Little Black Dress!)