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Advocates

Continuing Education

In order to keep current with issues that relate to the volunteer role, our volunteers are required to complete 12 hours of continuing education per year. For new volunteers, continuing education hours are prorated by the percentage of the year the advocate was a volunteer. The requirement applies to all volunteers who have been sworn and not discharged, regardless of whether they are assigned to a case.


Continuing Education in the Community

 

Suicide Prevention Workshop- Question, Persuade, Refer

The primary goal of the workshop by Kristi House is to provide participants with practical skills and knowledge to identify signs of suicidal ideation, engage with individuals at risk, and connect them to appropriate resources. Participants will gain insight into the prevalence and impact of suicide and develop a deeper understanding of the factors contributing to suicidal thoughts.

When: Thursday, March 6, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location:  Register Here

Becoming Trauma Informed

Participants will learn about the many types of trauma, the definition of trauma and the impact of trauma on brain development. The training will also educate participants on what a trauma informed care approach is, why it is important and provide opportunities to practice using the skills learned.

When: Thursday, March 6, 2025
Time: 1:30 - 3:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location:  Register Here

Mental Health 101

This presentation is an intro to mental health. The brain is an organ in the body that sometimes malfunctions just like other organs such as the kidney or the heart…Recovery is possible and often people do not understand this. We will talk about various mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, psychosis, and addiction and when someone should seek help. This class will help decrease apprehension about reaching out to help others or getting help yourself. This class will also share information on resources available here in the community.

When: Thursday, March 6, 2025
Time: 6:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location: Register Here

Wellness and Wellbeing 

Join Kristi House to recognize the signs of burnout and stress and learn effective strategies for prevention. Gain valuable tips on how to foster resilience, maintain a healthy work-life balance, and support your mental wellness in today’s fast-paced environment. 

When: Thursday, March 13, 2025
Time: 12:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location: Register Here

Commercial Sexual Exploitation of Children

Join Kristi House in this workshop that provides a basic overview of commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC), the extent of the problem, and the impact this type of trauma has on children. Also learn tips for identifying and engaging victims of child sex trafficking, and discussion of services needed for healing and reintegration into mainstream society. 

When: Wednesday, March 19, 2025
Time: 10:00 a.m.  – 12:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
RegistrationRegister here

School Matters for Court-Involved Children

In this two-part series, Judith Gerber, Esq. will introduce CASA’s to the law, tools and strategies to help children better flourish in school.  

The first session will address the legal responsibilities of child welfare agencies; children’s entitlements to school stability; accessing school records; and the school discipline process.  

The second session will explore the ins and outs of special education and ways to advocate effectively for children in the school arena. 

When: Wednesday, March 19, 2025 & Thursday, March 27, 2025
Time: 6:00 p.m.  – 7:30 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Registration: Register here

Understanding ACES 

The Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACE) Study findings represent a paradigm shift in human understanding of the origins of physical, social, mental, and societal health and well-being. We now know that leading causes of disease and disability, learning and productivity problems, and early death have their roots in the cumulative neurodevelopmental impacts of ACEs and toxic stress. Learn why ACEs impact people’s lives, and what we can all do to dramatically improve health and resilience for this and future generations.

When: Friday, March 21, 2025
Time: 5:00 - 7:30 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location: Register Here

ACES 101

Participants will understand the long term impact of ACEs on individuals and the community as well as consider strategies to mitigate the impact of ACEs. Additionally, the trainer will illustrate the difference between ACEs and Positive Childhood Experiences while also creating opportunities for participants to interact and ask questions. This training is intended for professionals working with children and families.

When: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 1:00 - 2:00 p.m.
Cost: No cost
Location: Register Here

Know2Protect Virtual Training

Kansas CASA Association is partnering with the Department of Homeland Security’s Know2Protect campaign to host a free virtual training on the growing threat of online child sexual exploitation and abuse. We invite you and your network to attend this important session to learn how to better protect children in online spaces. (Please note the website lists the training in CST time)

When: Wednesday, March 26, 2025
Time: 7:00 PM – 8:30 PM
Cost: No cost
Location: Register Here
 


Independent Learning

To encourage a diverse learning experience below are independent study options, such as documentary series, films, recorded webinars, or podcasts intended to be educational.

Click here forFilms

Click here forPodcasts

Click here forReadings

Click here forWebinars

CASA By The Numbers

  • Children Served Nationally

    276,000

  • National Volunteers

    96,000

  • Connecticut Children in Foster Care or under Protective Supervision

    7,173

  • Connecticut Children with CASA Advocates

    154

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