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 (optional)
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. (Attending an info session is optional and not reequired before submitting your application.)
Monday, June 15, 7:00pm - 7:45pm
Zoom Register Here
Wednesday, July 15, 6:30pm - 7:15pm
Zoom Register Here
Tuesday, August 25, 7:00pm
In-Person Info Session and Bingo Night
Goal Line, 85 Brink Street, Crystal Lake
RSVP or just stop in!
Thursday, September 3, 6:00pm - 6:45pm
Zoom Register Here
(Next Training Session begins 9/23/26 - details below)
(Applications due by 9/15/26)
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
Fall ’26 Evening Training
Introduction: Wed., Sept 23 @ 5:45pm – 7:00pm
Session 1: Wed., Sept 30 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 2: Wed., Oct 7 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 3: Wed., Oct 14 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 4: Wed., Oct 21 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 5: Wed., Oct 28 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 6: Wed., Nov 4 @ 5:45pm – 9:00pm
Swear-In: Fri., Nov 6 @ 8:00am – 8:45am (TBC)
Winter ’27 Daytime Training
Introduction: Wed., Jan 13 @ 12:15pm – 1:30pm
Session 1: Wed., Jan 20 @ 12:15pm – 3:00pm
Session 2: Wed., Jan 27 @ 12:15pm – 3:00pm
Session 3: Wed., Feb 3 @ 12:15pm – 3:00pm
Session 4: Wed., Feb 10 @ 12:15pm – 3:00pm
Session 5: Wed., Feb 17 @ 12:15pm – 3:00pm
Session 6: Wed., Feb 24 @ 12:15pm – 3:30pm
Swear-In: Fri., Feb 26 @ 8:00am – 8:45am (TBC)
Winter ’27 Evening Training
Introduction: Thu., Jan 14 @ 5:45pm – 7:00pm
Session 1: Thu., Jan 21 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 2: Thu., Jan 28 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 3: Thu., Feb 4 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 4: Thu., Feb 11 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 5: Wed., Feb 18 @ 5:45pm – 8:30pm
Session 6: Wed., Feb 25 @ 5:45pm – 9:00pm
Swear-In: Fri., Feb 26 @ 8:00am – 8:45am (TBC)