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Instructions for Updating Your Program’s Self-Assessment Information

Thank you for your efforts to align your program's operations with the Standards for Local CASA/GAL Programs. Keeping your program’s self-assessment information up to date will greatly improve and simplify future quality review activities and show increased alignment, as applicable, over time.

The process must be completed using the online system. Paper, printed or emailed updates will not be accepted. Programs may update the self-assessment anytime. In doing so, programs may make updates, save and return to the self-assessment to make additional updates. Please contact the National CASA/GAL Association at LPQR@nationalcasagal.org about any problems accessing or updating the online self-assessment.

Please answer all questions candidly and accurately. Please do not confirm any policies, practices or documents that do not currently exist for your local program. The self-assessment questions track the elements of practice in the Standards for Local CASA/GAL Programs. However, not all elements of practice will have a corresponding question. All elements of practice contained in the standards are required, whether or not a corresponding question or document request is included as part of the self-assessment.

Red font designates an item as urgent or high priority to be addresses as soon as possible if found to be out of alignment with standards.

As of March 2025, programs are no longer required to answer questions 10-17 about diversity, equity and inclusion. You may skip these questions. Additionally, if confirming and entering dates of review presents a hardship, you may skip these. (If you receive an error message when skipping these specific items, let us know and we will take care of the coding.)

Remember to click the submit button each time to work on the assessment and then scroll down to click the confirm button. The submit button saves your work and the confirm button updates our database with your responses.

Organization Name

Contact Email

Program ID

Standard 1: Core Model and Mission

Adheres to the National CASA/GAL Association Core Model of providing screened, trained and qualified community court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children and youth who are before the court as a result of abuse or neglect as defined by the state child welfare laws, living at home or in out-of-home care, as well as operates in alignment with the mission. CASA/GAL volunteers advocate for children from birth through the age defined by the state statute as the limit to youth remaining in care.

1:Does the program adhere to the National CASA/GAL Association Core Model of providing screened, trained and qualified community court-appointed volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children and youth who are before the court as a result of abuse or neglect as defined by the state child welfare laws, living at home or in out-of-home care? (NP 1.A/PA 1.A)

1a:Please check all that apply. Leave blank any statements that do not apply or that the program cannot confirm.

The program screens all volunteers (NP 1.A.1.a/PA 1.A.1.a)

The program trains all volunteers (NP 1.A.1.a/PA 1.A.1.a)

The program ensures all volunteers are qualified (age 21 or older with acceptable screening and training) (NP 1.A.1.a/PA 1.A.1.a)

All volunteers are appointed by the court. (The court appoints the individual volunteers or the program as a whole.) (NP 1.A.1.b/PA 1.A.1.b)

The program ensures that volunteers advocate for the best interests of children (NP 1.A.1.c/PA 1.A.1.c)

The program serves children and youth who are before the court as a result of abuse or neglect as defined by the state child welfare laws (NP 1.A.2.a/PA 1.A.2.a)

The program serves children from birth to the age defined by the statute as the limit to youth remaining in care (NP 1.A.2.c/PA 1.A.2.c)

2:Does the program’s state statute require or provide for the CASA GAL volunteer to take other types of cases? (NP 1.A.3/PA 1.A.3)

2a:If yes, please describe

3:Does the program have a Mission Statement approved by the program’s board or administrative authority? (NP 1.B/PA 1.B)

3a:Please enter your board approved mission statement here

You may copy and paste. If no mission statement enter "missing."

4:Does the program have Written Values? (NP 1.C/PA 1.C)

4a:Please enter your written values here

Our Values:

COMPASSION
We are a caring organization with compassionate and empathetic staff, board and advocates.  We recognize that the children and families whom we serve have experienced significant trauma.  With understanding and without judgment, we respectfully engage with our families and our child welfare system partners while honoring our cultural differences and diverse experiences.

HOPE
With the best interests of the child at the fore and best practices in action, we strive to change the trajectory of a child’s future by advocating for their safety, stability, overall health and well-being, and permanency.  We believe that with the right interventions and supports, children who have suffered abuse and neglect can find the health, happiness, and safety every child deserves.

INTEGRITY
We at CASA SHaW always strive for excellence.  We act with integrity in all aspects of our work – financially, interpersonally, in our casework, and with our community partners.  We are accountable for our actions, we communicate openly and effectively, and we acknowledge our mistakes. Professionally, we continually educate ourselves as we update best practices and foster ethical development.  We are good stewards of the mission and resources to which we have been entrusted.

LEADERSHIP
Whether dealing with families, colleagues, resource parents, donors or supporters, we work hard to build trust, foster open communication, and develop and maintain positive relationships. We ask for and offer collaboration with other stakeholders.  We are committed to fostering initiatives that benefit the children we serve and freely share our intellectual resources with others. We take a leadership role wherever we can in an effort to help our children not just survive but thrive.

DEDICATION
Each staff member, board member, and advocate is dedicated to our child advocacy mission. We work collaboratively and diligently to provide each member of our team with the tools they need to succeed in their roles.  We are committed to be thorough and objective fact finders who keep the child’s best interest at the heart of the work we do. We are committed to serving as the child’s advocate for as long as they need one throughout the foster care experience.

You may copy and paste. If no mission statement enter "missing."

Make sure to save and resume often as part of the online process so you don't lose any progress. You may right click to print to PDF with color coding intact.

Standard 2: Guiding Principles

Provides best-interest advocacy for children as reflected in these guiding principles which recognize the importance of family preservation and reunification, equity, diversity, inclusion and collaboration.

5:Does the program provide the court with recommendations for services, supports, visitation and communications, that are in the child’s best interest to achieve stability and/or reunification? (NP 2.A.1.e/PA 2.A.1.e)

6:Do court reports contain descriptions of the family's strengths? (NP 2.A.1.g/PA 2.A.1.g)

7:Do court reports contain information about the child's wishes (to the extent that is reasonable given a child’s age and ability to communicate)? (NP 2.A.1.h/PA 2.A.1.h)

8:How has the program operationalized the guiding principles? (NP 2.A/PA 2.A)

9:How does the program train on and integrate the guiding principles of family preservation and reunification? (NP 2.B/PA 2.B)

Our program utilizes National CASA's preservice curriculum, so all advocates receive training on looking at families from a strength-based lens, understanding the minimum sufficient level of care standard, and working towards reunification as the primary permanency goal. We enhance that preservice training with both local program and state training committee trainings on things like, "The Importance of Family Connections," "The History of Race in Child Welfare," "Family Search and Connect" trainings, and more. As an agency, we are also working to bridge the resources gap that can often challenge families. We have created a diaper and wipe bank, a grocery store, Walmart/Target, and gas station gift card bank, and have cultivated partnerships to ensure that every child has school supplies, toiletries, books, birthday gifts, and holiday gifts. We also offer a "holiday shop" for parents to come and choose gifts so they can help maintain connections with their children. We've also been able to help with big things, like vehicle donations for parents who needed transportation (twice!), assisted with technology gaps through providing Chromebooks and laptops for parents and kids, and helping with finding and delivering household furniture and basic household items in support of reunification as families start over. We're trying hard to highlight what parents are doing right and support reunification in both word and deed.

Make sure to save and resume often as part of the online process so you don't lose any progress. You may right click to print to PDF with color coding intact.

Standard 3: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Commits to diversity, equity and inclusion and demonstrates these qualities in its own operations, governance,

management and quality advocacy for children.

10:Does the program have a written plan and action steps for diversifying the program’s staff, volunteers and governing board to reflect the population of children served? (Diversity Plan) (NP 3.A.1/PA 3.A.1)

10a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Diversity Plan

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

11:Does the program have a written plan and action steps to promote equity and inclusion of diverse staff, and volunteers? - And members of the governing board for nonprofit programs? (Equity and Inclusion Plan. This may be an element contained in the Diversity Plan.) (NP 3.A.2/PA 3.A.2)

If included in Diveristy Plan, duplicate the answer here.

11a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Equity and Inclusion Plan

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

12:Please provide a brief narrative statement on the following areas:

12a:What progress has the program made on the goals in the program’s diversity, equity and inclusion plan(s)? (NP 3.A.3/PA 3.A.3)

CASA SHaW has made significant progress in this area over the last several years. In 2014, we participated in a tri-county recruitment effort for minority board members and advocates. Since 2017, we have had a majority minority board, which has been instrumental in supporting other initiatives like racial equity circles (2020-present) that focus on learning about and understanding the experiences of marginalized groups in the United States. Out of the circles came the idea for a "history of race in child welfare" training, which we in New Jersey have just begun to pilot. In 2019 we engaged Drs, Mica McGriggs and Jessie Richardson to do a day-long training on the racial bias, equity, inclusion, and advocacy. The three counties which we serve - Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren - are overwhelmingly white. While the vast majority of our volunteers are white women, around 18% of our advocates represent minority groups, which is higher than the proportion they represent in 2 of our 3 counties. One area where we haven't made progress is in our staff demographics. We do not have a lot of turnover, but when we do we actively encourage minorities to apply as part of our advertising.

If no progress, please indicate this and describe efforts.

12b:What demonstrates or would demonstrate progress in the areas of diversity, equity and inclusion for the program? (NP 3.A.3/PA 3.A.3)

13:Has diversity, equity and inclusion been a priority in the program’s strategic plan or operational goals? (NP 3.A.4/PA 3.A.4)

14:Does the program require and document annual participation of program staff, volunteers and governing board in education and training about diversity, equity and inclusion? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs) (NP 3.A.6/PA 3.A.6)

15:Does the program have an Equal Employment Opportunity Policy? (NP 3.D.5/PA 3.D.5)

15a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Equal Employment Opportunity Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

16:Does the program have an Anti-Discrimination Policy? (NP 3.D.5/PA 3.D.5)

16a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Anti-Discrimination Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

17:Does the program have an Anti-Harassment Policy? (NP 3.D.5/PA 3.D.5)

17a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Anti-Harassment Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

Make sure to save and resume often as part of the online process so you don't lose any progress. You may right click to print to PDF with color coding intact.

Standard 4: Ethical Conduct and Confidentiality

Upholds the credibility, integrity, dignity and reliability of CASA/GAL advocacy by conducting all interactions in an honest, fair, respectful and compassionate manner. The program incorporates policies and practices to avoid conflicts of interest and preserve confidentiality.

18:Has the program established policies to govern ethical conduct of its staff, paid consultants, volunteers and governing board? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 4.A.1/PA 4.A.1)

19:Does the program maintain a written Conflict of Interest Policy? (NP 4.A.2/PA 4.A.2)

19a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Conflict of Interest Policy (NP 4.A.2/PA 4.A.2)

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

19b:Is the conflict of interest policy signed annually by staff, paid consultants, and members of the governing board? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs) (NP 4.A.2.a/PA 4.A.2.a)

19c:Does the conflict of interest policy identify and define conduct and transactions in which a conflict of interest exists or has the potential to exist and warrants disclosure? (NP 4.A.2.b/PA 4.A.2.b)

19d:Does the conflict of interest policy prohibit staff, paid consultants, volunteers and members of the governing board from having direct or indirect financial interest in the assets, leases, business transactions or professional services of the program? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 4.A.2.c/PA 4.A.2.c)

19e:Does the conflict of interest policy prohibit staff and/or assigned CASA/GAL volunteers from being related to any parties involved in the case or being employed in a position and/or affiliated with an agency that might result in a conflict of interest? (NP 4.A.2.d/PA 4.A.2.d)

19f:Does the conflict of interest policy identify other specific conduct or circumstances that constitute a conflict or potential conflict and would therefore be prohibited? (NP 4.A.2.e/PA 4.A.2.e)

19g:Does the conflict of interest policy require that the individual involved make timely disclosure to the program of any conflict or potential for conflict of interest? (NP 4.A.2.f/PA 4.A.2.f)

19h:Does the conflict of interest policy include a procedure for recusal from the transaction, case or decision by the individual with the conflict or potential conflict? (NP 4.A.2.g/PA 4.A.2.g)

19i:Does the conflict of interest policy include a procedure for dismissal or other appropriate discipline of the individual involved with a conflict in the event said individual fails to disclose the conflict prior to becoming involved in the transaction, case or decision affected by the conflict? (NP 4.A.2.h/PA 4.A.2.h)

20:Does the program require staff, volunteers and governing board members to immediately notify the CASA/GAL program of any criminal charges filed against them? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 4.A.5/PA 4.A.4)

21:Does the program follow written policies and procedures regarding access to, use of, and release of information about the children it serves to ensure that the confidentiality of children and their families is maintained at all times? (Confidentiality Policy) (NP 4.B.1/PA 4.B.1)

21a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Confidentiality Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

22:Do volunteers sign a statement of confidentiality upon acceptance of each case? (NP 4.B.3/PA 4.B.3)

22a:If no, when do volunteers sign a statement of confidentiality?

22a.1:When do volunteers sign a statement of confidentiality? (Other)

23:Do staff and members of the governing board sign a statement of confidentiality upon hire or affiliation with the program? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs) (NP 4.B.4/PA 4.B.4)

24:Does the program follow written policies and procedures regarding access to, use of, and release of information about the children it serves? (Release of Information Policy/Protocol - This may be included in the Confidentiality Policy) (NP 4.B.6/PA 4.B.6)

24a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Release of Information Policy/Protocol

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

25:Does the program have a written policy to protect confidential information of staff, volunteers, governing board, advisory committee members, if applicable, and donors?(Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs) (Policy for Protection of Non-Case Information - This may be combined with or included in Confidentiality Policy or Records Retention Policy) (NP 4.B.7/PA 4.B.7)

This may be included in HR or other broad policies for publicly administered programs.

25a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Policy for Protection of Non-Case Information

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

26:Are all confidential electronic and hard copy correspondence, files and records securely maintained and readily accessible? (NP 4.B.8/PA 4.B.8)

Make sure to save and resume often as part of the online process so you don't lose any progress. You may right click to print to PDF with color coding intact.

Standard 5: Governance and Administration

Oversees and ensures compliance with applicable laws, regulations, fiduciary obligations, written agreements, standards and financial sustainability of the program.

27:Does the program have access to legal counsel and/or relevant legal expertise to clarify the meaning of laws and regulations governing its program operations and to provide legal counsel as needed to assist in performing the duties assigned to the volunteers by the courts? (NP 5.A.2/PA 5.A.2)

28:Has the program established a written Strategic Plan (nonprofits) or Operational Goals and Objectives (publicly administered)? (NP 5.A.3/PA 5.A.3)

28a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Strategic Plan or Operational Goals and Objectives

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

29:Does the program adhere to a Whistleblower Policy which provides members of the governing board, staff and volunteers a procedure for reporting unethical, inappropriate or illegal activities by members of the governing board, staff or volunteers? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.A.6/PA 5.A.6)

29a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Whistleblower Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

30:Does the program's governing board or administrative authority adopt a written Budget annually which guides the management of resources? (NP 5.A.8/PA 5.A.8)

30a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Budget

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

31:Does the program ensure that it has applicable insurance coverages? (NP 5.A.9/PA 5.A.9) (Applicable insurances include at a minimum liability, workers' compensation and officers and directors coverage for nonprofit board members or equivalent coverages. Additional insurance protections may be applicable and prudent.)

31a:Please enter the most recent date of governing board/administrative authority’s review and/or approval/adoption of the program’s Insurance Coverage.

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank. If more than one date, enter most recent.

31b:What was the most recent renewal date for the program’s liability insurance or an equivalent?

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

31c:What was the most recent renewal date for the program’s workers’ compensation insurance or an equivalent?

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

31d:What was the most recent renewal date for the program’s directors’ and officers’ coverage?

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

31d.1:N/A because the program is publicly administered

32:Does the program's governing board/administrative authority evaluate the performance of the executive director in writing at least annually utilizing written performance criteria? (NP 5.A.11/PA 5.A.11)

32a:Please enter the most recent date of the executive director’s performance evaluation.

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

33:Has the program established a written Succession Plan for the executive director position? (NP 5.A.12/PA 5.A.12)

34:Does the program maintain accurate and complete records of every governing board meeting? (Nonprofits only). Does the program maintain documentation of every administrative authority meeting pertaining directly to program policymaking or operations? (Publicly administered only) (NP 5.A.13/PA 5.A.13)

35:Does the program have a Statute or Written Agreement with the Court(s) that defines the case assignment and acceptance process as well as the working relationship between the program and the court? (NP 5.A.15/PA 5.A.15)

35a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Written Agreement with the Court(s)

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

35b:Is the agreement reviewed at least once every three (3) years to assess the need for updates? (NP 5.A.15.a/PA 5.A.15.a)

35c:Is the written agreement between the CASA/GAL program and the court renewed when there is a change in the judicial leadership or changes in policy, law or local court rules, or program resources that substantially impact the relationship between the program and the court? (NP 5.A.15.b/PA 5.A.15.b)

36:Does the program ensure the development of, compliance with and review of Bylaws? (NP 5.A.16)

36a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Bylaws

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown or N/A, leave blank.

37:Does the program obtain a completed written application from each prospective staff person, volunteer or governing board member containing information about educational background, training, employment history and experience working with children? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.1/PA 5.B.1)

Screening requirements apply to volunteers, staff and nonprofit board members.

37a:Does the program obtain the names of three (3) or more references that are unrelated to the applicant? (NP 5.B.2/PA 5.B.2)

38:Does the program obtain written authorization and information to secure a background check on each prospective staff person, volunteer and governing board member initially and at least every four (4) years if there are no Rap Back services? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.3/PA 5.B.3)

39:Does the program obtain a background check on each prospective program staff person, volunteer and governing board member? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.3/PA 5.B.3)

39a:Do background checks include criminal records from the court jurisdiction in which the applicant currently resides and works? (NP 5.B.3.a/PA 5.B.3.a)

39b:Do background checks include state criminal records? (NP 5.B.3.b/PA 5.B.3.b)

39c:Do background checks include FBI or other national criminal database? (NP 5.B.3.c/PA 5.B.3.c)

39d:Do background checks include national sex offender registry? (NP 5.B.3.d/PA 5.B.3.d)

39e:Do background checks include a child abuse registry or child protective services check where permissible by law? (NP 5.B.3.e/PA 5.B.3.e)

39f:Do background checks include a social security number check or the equivalent that allows for additional names, aliases and/or addresses to be obtained for the individual for further checks? (NP 5.B.3.f/PA 5.B.3.f)

40:Does the program conduct a personal interview in-person with each prospective program staff person, volunteer and governing board member? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.4/PA 5.B.4)

41:Does the program secure county and state criminal record checks for any county or state not covered by a national criminal background check in which the prospective program staff person, volunteer or governing board member has resided for the previous seven (7) years? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.5/PA 5.B.5)

42:Does the program secure a child abuse registry or child protective services check, unless prohibited by law, for any state in which the prospective program staff person, volunteer or governing board member has resided for the previous seven (7) years? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.6/PA 5.B.6)

43:Does the program decline any prospective program staff person, volunteer or governing board member who refuses or fails to sign a release of information form or submit the required information necessary for any of the checks required by the Standards for Local CASA/GAL Programs? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.7/PA 5.B.7)

44:Does the program decline or dismiss any prospective or current program staff person, volunteer or governing board applicant found to have been convicted of, or having charges pending for a felony or misdemeanor involving a sex offense, child abuse or neglect or related acts that would pose risks to children or the program’s credibility? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.8/PA 5.B.8)

45:Does the program consider if an applicant is found to have committed a misdemeanor or felony that is unrelated to or would not pose a risk to children and would not negatively impact the credibility of the program, the extent of the rehabilitation since the misdemeanor or felony was committed, as well as other factors that may influence the decision, to accept the applicant as a program staff person, volunteer or governing board member? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.9/PA 5.B.9)

46:Does the program complete and document all screening before the program staff person, volunteer or governing board member is accepted by the program and written verification is maintained on file at the program office? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.10/PA 5.B.10)

47:Does the program provide written notification as part of the application process for prospective program staff, volunteers and governing board members about all screening and background check requirements? (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.11/PA 5.B.11)

48:Does the program repeat and document these record checks for each active program staff person, volunteer and governing board member at least every four (4) years? (Rap Back services may be utilized for criminal background re-checks.) (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 5.B.12/PA 5.B.12)

51:Does the governing body/administrative authority determine and monitor adherence to policies related to corrective action(s) for any current staff person, volunteer or governing board member who violates a program policy, court rule or law that poses a risk to a child or negatively impacts the program? (NP 5.B.13/PA 5.B.13)

55:Does the program utilize a written plan or matrix to guide its board recruitment efforts? (Board Recruitment Plan or Matrix) (NP 5.D.2)

56:Does the governing board conduct an Annual Meeting (often required by statute)?

56a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board’s Annual Meeting

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

Make sure to save and resume often as part of the online process so you don't lose any progress. You may right click to print to PDF with color coding intact.

Standard 6: Management and Funding

Demonstrates mission-oriented leadership in operations management and is a responsible steward of all resources in order to maximize advocacy for children who are eligible for and in need of a CASA/GAL volunteer.

57:Has the executive director (or equivalent) developed a Logic Model? (NP 6.A.3.b/PA 6.A.3.b)

58:Does the program follow a written plan for securing and maintaining financial resources adequate to accomplish its established goals and objectives? (Resource Development Plan or equivalent financial plan for publicly administered programs.) (NP 6.B.1/PA 6.B.1)

58a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Resource Development or Financial Plan

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

63:Has the program maintained its tax-exempt status without interruption? (NP 6.B.2)

64:Does the program seek to conserve its financial resources by using competitive bidding, where applicable, in accordance with governing board/administrative authority policy and law or regulation? (Procurement Policy – This may be included in the program’s Written Operational Policies and Procedures with regard to accounting controls or Internal Financial Controls) (NP 6.B.3.c/PA 6.B.2.b)

64a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Procurement Policy

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

65:Does the executive director (or equivalent) ensure the submission of financial reports to the governing board/administrative authority at least quarterly? (NP 6.C.2/PA 6.C.2)

65a:Please enter date of last governing board/administrative authority review of financial report(s).

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

66:Does the program produce an Annual Report which includes financial, statistical and service data summary information? (NP 6.C.3/PA 6.C.3)

67:Does the program annually file the required Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 990 in a timely manner? (NP 6.C.4)

67a:Is the IRS Form 990 provided to the governing board or designee prior to filing? (NP 6.C.4)

68:Does the program make timely payments to the IRS and to other taxing authorities, as required by law? (NP 6.C.5)

69:Does the program ensure completion of an independent audit, financial review or compilation consistent with the revenue table provided in Standard 6.C.6 for nonprofits or Standard 6.C.3 for publicly administered programs? (NP 6.C.6/PA 6.C.3)

69a:Please upload the program’s most recent Financial Audit, Review or Compilation per Standard 6.C.6. (nonprofits) or Standard 6.C.3 (publicly administered)

Formerly required as part of membership renewal.

69a.1:Please upload the most recent Management Letter and/or Audit Findings provided as a result of a financial audit, review or compilation

Leave blank if no Management Letter.

69a.2:The most recent financial audit, review or compilation did not include a Management Letter or Audit Findings.

69b:Please enter date of the governing body/administrative authority’s review of the uploaded Financial Audit, Review or Compilation and related Management Letter or Findings, if applicable.

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

70:Does the program have written Internal Financial Control Policies? (These may be included in the operational policies and procedures) (NP 6.D.2.g/PA 6.D.2.g)

70a:Please enter the most recent date of the governing board/administrative authority’s review or approval/adoption of the program’s Internal Financial Control Policies

Format is MM/DD/YYYY. If date is unknown, leave blank.

71:Are systems in place to prevent or to detect fraud or abuses of the system, such as control, use, and review of the system by more than one person? (NP 6.D.4.b/PA 6.D.4.b)

72:Are the program’s accounting records kept up to date and balanced on a monthly basis? (NP 6.D.5/PA 6.D.5)

73:Does the program reconcile bank statements to the general ledger on a monthly basis? (NP 6.D.6)

74:Are staff or volunteers permitted to provide transportation for the children served? (NP 6.G.10/PA 6.G.9)

Programs that do not permit transporation of children will skip the related subquestions.

74a:Does the program have written policies about the transportation of children? (NP 6.G.10.a/PA 6.G.9.a)

74b:Has the program secured the necessary liability insurance to cover the program and the staff or volunteer? (NP 6.G.10.b/PA 6.G.9.b)

74c:Does the program ensure that the staff or volunteer obtains written permission of the supervisor or executive director? (NP 6.G.10.c/PA 6.G.9.c)

74d:Does the program require written permission from the child’s legal guardian or custodial agency? (NP 6.G.10.d/PA 6.G.9.d)

74e:Does the program allow staff or volunteers to use their personal vehicles for transporting the children served? (NP 6.G.10.e/PA 6.G.9.e)

74f:Does the program ensure that the staff or volunteer drivers have passed a motor vehicles division record check annually? (NP 6.G.10.e.i/PA 6.G.9.e.i)

74g:Does the program require staff or volunteer drivers to provide annually to the program a copy of a valid unexpired current driver’s license? (NP 6.G.10.e.ii/PA 6.G.9.e.ii)

74h:Does the program require staff or volunteer drivers to provide annually to the program proof of adequate personal automobile insurance that meets the required state minimum if one exists or the program’s insurance carrier minimum if absent a state minimum? (NP 6.G.10.e.iii/PA 6.G.9.e.iii)

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Standard 7: Human Resources

Follows written policies for recruiting, screening, training, supervising, evaluating and developing staff from diverse backgrounds in an equitable and inclusive environment that advances the CASA/GAL mission.

93:Does the program have and adhere to written Human Resources Policies? (NP 7.A.1/PA 7.A.1)

May be referred to as Personnel Policies or equivalent.

94:Do the Human Resources Polices include or describe the following? Check all that apply. Leave blank any that do not apply.)

94.1:Human resources practices. (NP 7.A.2.a/PA 7.A.2.a)94.2:Working conditions. (NP 7.A.2.b/PA 7.A.2.b)94.3:Wage policies and benefits, as applicable. (NP 7.A.2.c/PA 7.A.2.c)94.4:Insurance protections applicable to program staff. (NP 7.A.2.d/PA 7.A.2.d)94.5:Required and supplemental training, and development opportunities for staff. (NP 7.A.2.e/PA 7.A.2.e)94.6:A social media policy. (NP 7.A.2.f/PA 7.A.2.f)94.7:A requirement that all staff and contract workers disclose any paid employment, contract work, volunteer service, or membership on a board of directors that might present a conflict of interest. (Governing board applies only to nonprofit programs.) (NP 7.A.2.g/PA 7.A.2.g)94.8:Whistleblower protection for staff. (NP 7.A.2.h/PA 7.A.2.h)

95:Does the program obtain a signed acknowledgement from each staff person confirming they have read and understand the human resources policies? (NP 7.A.3/PA 7.A.3)

96:Does the program have written operational procedures regarding grievances to provide staff the opportunity and means to lodge complaints and appeals? (NP 7.A.7/PA 7.A.7)

97:Have all newly hired program directors and volunteer supervisors completed the National CASA/GAL Association pre-service training within six (6) months of hire? (NP 7.D.2/PA 7.D.2)

98:Has the program implemented a training and development plan for staff that is reviewed annually and ensures that staff complete 12 hours of continuing education annually? (NP 7.E.1/PA 7.E.1)

99:Does the program have a system for the periodic evaluation of all program staff? (NP 7.F.4/PA 7.F.4)

99a:Are all staff are given the opportunity to sign the evaluation report, to obtain a copy and to include written comments before the report is entered into the human resources record? (NP 7.F.7/PA 7.F.7)

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Standard 8: Volunteer Administration

Follows written policies for recruiting, screening, training, supporting, supervising, recognizing and retaining volunteers to fulfill the role and duties of court-appointed special advocates/guardians ad litem, in accordance with applicable laws, rules, regulations and standards.

102:What outcomes has the program achieved from its Diversity Plan (or Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Plan) in relation to recruiting volunteers? (NP 8.A/PA 8.A; See also Standard 3)

103:Does the program require volunteers to sign a social media policy? (NP 8.B.6.c/PA 8.B.6.c)

104:When the program accepts a qualified volunteer transferring from another program, does the program require the volunteer advocate to complete the full application and screening process consistent with Standard 5.B.? (NP 8.B.7/PA 8.B.7)

105:Does the program have a written policy regarding the reactivation of volunteers who have been inactive for more than one (1) year? (NP 8.B.8/PA 8.B.8)

105a:Does the policy include guidelines under which a volunteer would not have to be retrained? (NP 8.B.8/PA 8.B.8)

105b:Does the program document reactivation of any/all volunteer advocates that have been inactive for more than one (1) year? (NP 8.B.8/PA 8.B.8)

106:Does the program train volunteer advocates using the current National CASA/GAL Association Pre-Service Training Curriculum? (NP 8.C.1/PA 8.C.1)

106a:If using an equivalent or alternative pre-service training curriculum, was that curriculum approved in writing by the National CASA/GAL Association? (NP 8.C.1/PA 8.C.1)

106a.1:Please upload documentation of National CASA/GAL Association approval of the alternative pre-service curriculum utilized by the program.

106a.2:Please upload the table of contents for the alternative pre-service training curriculum utilized by the program.

107:Does the program maintain documentation verifying that all volunteer advocates have successfully completed the required pre-service training? (NP 8.C.2/PA 8.C.2)

107a:Does the documentation include the training dates? (NP 8.C.2.a/PA 8.C.2.a)

107b:Does the documentation include the name of the training facilitator(s)? (NP 8.C.2.b/PA 8.C.2.b)

107c:Does the documentation include verification that the facilitator has been trained in accordance with Standard 8.C.4? (NP 8.C.2.c/PA 8.C.2.c)

107d:Does the documentation include participant attendance and completion records? (NP 8.C.2.d/PA 8.C.2.d)

108:Please indicate which National CASA/GAL pre-service training modalities the program offers. (NP 8.C.3/PA 8.C.3) (Check all that apply)

108.1:Traditional In-Class108.2:Flex Learning108.3:Guided Learning108.4:Fully virtual adaptation made available from the National CASA/GAL Association during the pandemic108.5:Program uses an alternative or equivalent curriculum

109:Please indicate how the program's pre-service training facilitators are qualified? (NP 8.C.4/PA 8.C.4) (Check all that apply)

109.1:Facilitators completed a National CASA/GAL Association Training of Facilitators (NP 8.C.4.a/PA 8.C.4.a)109.2:Facilitators completed a Training of Facilitators provided by the state CASA/GAL organization with a facilitator who has completed the National CASA/GAL Association Training of Facilitators (NP 8.C.4.b/PA 8.C.4.b)109.3:Facilitators co-facilitate their first pre-service training with a qualified facilitator who completed a Training of Facilitators offered by the National CASA/GAL Association or state CASA/GAL organization (NP 8.C.4.c/PA 8.C.4.c) 109.4:Other (Please Specify)

109.4a: Other (Please Specify)

110:Please list the names and titles of all facilitators utilized by the program for pre-service training: (NP 8.C.4/PA 8.C.4)

111:Does the program ensure that volunteers complete 12 hours of continuing education annually (pro-rated the first year based on the volunteer’s date of swearing-in)? (NP 8.C.9/PA 8.C.9)

111a:Does the program track and document continuing education hours and topics for volunteer advocates? (NP 8.C.9/PA 8.C.9)

112:When accepting a qualified volunteer transferring from another program, is that volunteer required to complete, at a minimum, training regarding the local court, laws, program policies and procedures, investigation and report writing? (NP 8.C.10/PA 8.C.10)

115:Does the program have procedures for the acceptance and assignment of cases? (NP 8.D.1/PA 8.D.1)

116:Are volunteer advocates sworn in by the judge or court personnel before appointment to a case? (NP 8.D.3/PA 8.D.3)

117:Are supervisors providing timely and thorough guidance to volunteers through contact at least once per month by video conference, telephone or in person meeting? (NP 8.E.2/PA 8.E.2)

118:Are any full time program staff supervising more than 30 active volunteers or a maximum of 45 cases? (NP 8.E.3/PA 8.E.3)

118a:When a staff person who supervises volunteers is required to perform duties other than supervision of volunteers, does the program reduce the number of volunteer and cases pro rata? (For example would a full time volunteer supervisor who is allocating 50% of her/his/their time to fundraising, manage a maximum of 15 volunteers or 23 cases?) (NP 8.E.3/PA 8.E.3)

119:Does the program maintain written Volunteer Policies and Procedures? (NP 8.F.1/PA 8.F.1)

120:Do the Volunteer Policies and Procedures include the following? (Please check elements confirmed to be in the program’s Volunteer Policies and Procedures. Leave blank any elements not contained in the Volunteer Policies and Procedures.)

120.1:A description of the volunteer’s role and responsibilities. (NP 8.F.4/PA 8.F.4)120.2:A requirement that the volunteer reports any incident of child abuse or neglect, or any situation in which the volunteer has reason to believe that a child is in imminent danger to the appropriate authorities and the program supervisor. (NP 8.F.5.a/PA 8.F.5.a)120.3:A requirement that the volunteer obtains first-hand a clear understanding of the needs and situation of the child by conducting an ongoing review of all relevant documents and records and interviewing the child, parents, social workers, teachers and other relevant persons to gather information about the child’s situation. (NP 8.F.5.b/PA 8.F.5.b)120.4:A requirement for the volunteer to identify and advocate for the best interests of the child. (NP 8.F.5.c/PA 8.F.5.c)120.5:A requirement that the volunteer collaborates and coordinates with legal, child welfare, and other partners to ensure service provision that is in the child’s best interests. (NP 8.F.5.d/PA 8.F.5.d)120.6:A requirement for the volunteer to provide a report for the court at every hearing where permitted, which includes information and recommendations about the child’s needs and best interests. (NP 8.F.5.e/PA 8.F.5.e)120.7:A requirement for volunteers to appear in court to advocate for the child’s best interests and provide testimony when necessary. (NP 8.F.5.f/PA 8.F.5.f)120.8:A requirement that volunteers meet in-person with the child once every 30 days at a minimum. (NP 8.F.5.g/PA 8.F.5.g)120.9:A requirement that volunteers make recommendations for services for the child and the child’s family. (NP 8.F.5.h/PA 8.F.5.h)120.10:A requirement for volunteers to seek information about whether a permanency plan has been created for the child and to make recommendations concerning permanency. (NP 8.F.5.i/PA 8.F.5.i)120.11:A requirement for the volunteer to monitor implementation of service plans and court orders and assess whether court-ordered services are implemented in a timely manner and whether review hearings should be scheduled with the court. (NP 8.F.5.j/PA 8.F.5.j)120.12:A requirement for volunteers to inform the court promptly of important developments in the case through appropriate means as determined by court rules or statute. (NP 8.F.5.k/PA 8.F.5.k)120.13:A requirement for volunteers to advocate for the child’s best interests in the community by interfacing with mental health, educational and other relevant systems, subject to confidentiality limitations. (NP 8.F.5.l/PA 8.F.5.l)120.14:A requirement for volunteers to participate in all scheduled case reviews with program supervisory staff. (NP 8.F.5.m/PA 8.F.5.m)120.15:A requirement for volunteers to participate in continuing education relevant to CASA/GAL service. (NP 8.F.5.n/PA 8.F.5.n)120.16:A requirement for volunteers to maintain complete records about the case, including appointments, interviews and information gathered about the child and the child’s life circumstances. (NP 8.F.5.o/PA 8.F.5.o)120.17:A requirement for volunteers to discuss all recommendations concerning the case with the program supervisor prior to submitting recommendations to the court. (NP 8.F.5.p/PA 8.F.5.p)120.18:A prohibition against volunteers taking assigned children to the volunteer's home. (NP 8.F.5.q.i/PA 8.F.5.q.i)120.19:A prohibition against the volunteer taking an assigned child to any location that is not pre-approved by the child’s legal guardian, custodial agency and CASA/GAL program supervisor or director. (NP 8.F.5.q.ii/PA 8.F.5.q.ii)120.20:A prohibition against the volunteer providing legal advice or therapeutic counseling to any parties related to the assigned case. (NP 8.F.5.q.iii/PA 8.F.5.q.iii)120.21:A prohibition against the volunteer making placement arrangements for an assigned child. (NP 8.F.5.q.iv/PA 8.F.5.q.iv)120.22:A prohibition against the volunteer giving money or expensive gifts to the child, the child’s family or caregiver. (NP 8.F.5.q.v/PA 8.F.5.q.v)120.23:A requirement for the volunteer to return the case file and notes to the program when the volunteer’s assignment concludes or the case closes. (NP 8.F.5.r/PA 8.F.5.r)

121:Does each volunteer receive a copy of the current volunteer policies and procedures? (NP 8.F.2/PA 8.F.2)

Access to electronic or online copy is equivalent to paper copy.

121a:Does the program retain a signed acknowledgement of reading and understanding the policies from each volunteer advocate in the volunteer’s record? (NP 8.F.2/PA 8.F.2)

Electronic signatures are equivalent to paper signatures.

122:Are there times when a volunteer is not able to see the child at least once each month? (NP 8.F.5.g/PA 8.F.5.g)

122a:Does the program have a written exceptions policy outlining circumstances when exceptions to the monthly visit policy may be permitted? (NP 8.F.5.g.ii/PA 8.F.5.g.ii)

122b:Does the program retain documentation about the justification for and reasonableness of each exception? (np 8.F.5.g.ii/PA 8.F.5.g.ii)

123:Are there times when a volunteer is assigned to more than two cases simultaneously? (NP 8.F.8/PA 8.F.8)

123a:Does the program have a written exceptions policy outlining circumstances when exceptions the two case policy may be permitted? (NP 8.F.8.a/PA 8.F.8.a)

123b:Does the program retain documentation about the justification for and reasonableness of each exception? (NP 8.F.8.a/PA 8.F.8.a)

123c:Does the program ensure that volunteers are never assigned more than five cases, even under an exceptions policy? (NP 8.F.8.b/PA 8.F.8.b)

126:Does the program allow volunteers to take photos of children? (NP 8.F.10/PA 8.F.10)

126a:Does the program have written policies that guide the purpose, use, distribution, storage and destruction of the photos after case closure? (NP 8.F.10/PA 8.F.10)

126b:Do the written policies allow photos only when requested/required by the court or when written permission is obtained from the legal guardian? (NP 8.F.10.a.i-ii/PA 8.F.10.a.i-ii)

126c:Do the written policies prohibit the use of photos for social media, marketing or personal use unless written authorization is provided by the legal guardian? (NP 8.F.10.b/PA 8.F.10.b)

127:Does the program have policies and procedures that specify the conditions for corrective action and non-voluntary dismissal of volunteer advocates? (NP 8.G.1/PA 8.G.1)

127a:Do these policies and procedures establish or describe appropriate grounds for dismissal of a volunteer that include the following elements? (NP 8.G.2/PA 8.G.2) (Check all elements confirmed to be in the policies. Leave blank any elements not contained in the policies.)

127a.1:Taking action without program or court approval which endangers the child or is outside the role or authority of the program. (NP 8.G.2.a/PA 8.G.2.a)

127a.2:Engaging in ex-parte communication with the court. (NP 8.G.2.b/PA 8.G.2.b)

127a.3:Violating a program policy, court rule or law (NP 8.G.2.c/PA 8.G.2.c)

127a.4:Failing to complete the required National CASA/GAL Association preservice training or 12 hours of continuing education each year. (NP 8.G.2.d/PA 8.G.2.d)

127a.5:Failing to effectively carry out assigned duties, which may include not following program direction or guidance. (NP 8.G.2.e/PA 8.G.2.e)

127a.6:Falsifying a volunteer application or misrepresenting facts during the screening process. (NP 8.G.2.f/PA 8.G.2.f)

127a.7:Having allegations of child abuse or neglect brought against the volunteer advocate. (NP 8.G.2.g/PA 8.G.2.g)

127a.8:Experiencing an irresolvable conflict of interest. (NP 8.G.2.h/PA 8.G.2.h)

128:Do the program's policies and procedures specify the person or persons with authority to dismiss a volunteer? (NP 8.G.3/PA 8.G.3)

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Standard 9: Public Education

and Engagement

Communicates and actively engages with stakeholders and the general public to provide information and build support for the CASA/GAL mission and the needs of children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

131:Does the program have a written plan for public information, outreach and education activities to provide an understanding of the program's purpose, function and role in judicial proceedings and the community social service system? (Plan for Public Information, Outreach and Education) (NP 9.A.1/PA 9.A.1)

132:Has the program’s leadership reviewed the National CASA/GAL Association Brand Guidelines and Intellectual Property Standards? (NP 9.A.1/PA 9.A.1)

133:Is the program operating in alignment with the National CASA/GAL Association Brand Guidelines and Intellectual Property Standards? (NP 9.A.1/PA 9.A.1)

134:Does the program have a written Communications Policy? (NP 9.A.5/PA 9.A.5)

135:Does the program have a written Crisis Management Plan that addresses issues that may have significant impact on the credibility, reputation or funding at the local, state or national level? (NP 9.A.6/PA 9.A.6)

135a:Does the crisis management plan provide for information sharing between the program, governing board, national, state and local CASA/GAL organizations within 24 hours, subject to confidentiality limitations? (NP 9.A.6/PA 9.A.6)

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Standard 10: Data and Records

Compiles, maintains, manages and reports quality data and information in accordance with applicable laws, policies and/or standards. The program maintains complete, accurate and current case records and volunteer files.

136:Does the program collect the information needed to complete the National CASA/GAL Association’s six-month and annual surveys, and other data collection requests? (NP 10.1.A/PA 10.A.1)

136a:Does the program have a tool and/or software for the collection of data? (P 10.A.2/PA 10.A.2)

136b:What tool or software does the program use to collect data?

136b.1:If other database, please specify

137:Does the program have operational procedures governing use of the tool, system and/or software? (NP 10.A.2.a/PA 10.A.2.a)

138:Does the program have confidentiality policies concerning electronic data and information sharing via electronic media? (NP 10.A.2.b/Pa 10.A.2.b)

139:Does the program require and retain the following data for each case? (NP 10.B.1/PA 10.B.1) (Check all data points collected by the program. Leave blank any elements not collected by the program.)

139.1:Name of the child.

139.2:Name of volunteer.

139.3:Date of appointment by the court.

139.4:Date of assignment of the case to the volunteer.

139.5:Date the case is closed by the court.

139.6:Date the volunteer is released from the case.

139.7:Biographical or other identifying information.

139.8:Background on the nature of the presenting problem or reason for referral by the court.

139.9:Court reports and any court orders related to the service being provided.

139.10:Social service case plan, or other document from the child protection agency indicating the plan for the child.

170:Does the program maintain copies of all volunteer reports, written correspondence concerning the case, significant case updates and issues discussed through non-written communications (such as in-person meetings or phone calls) not otherwise included in volunteer reports or written correspondence? (NP 10.B.3/PA 10.B.3)

171:Does the program have written operational procedures, consistent with legal requirements, and with the policy on confidential information, governing the retention, maintenance, protection, destruction and return of case files when the case is closed? (This is sometimes referred to as a Records Retention and/or Destruction Policy or Plan.) (NP 10.B.5/PA 10.B.5)

172:Does the program have established procedures for the legal and programmatic release, in writing, of volunteers when a case is closed or when a volunteer is removed from a case? (NP 10.B.6/PA 10.B.6)

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Standard 11: Network and Membership

Maintains membership with National CASA/GAL Association and is a member or an affiliate of the state CASA/GAL organization (if one exists) and meets the standards, requirements and policies of both.

Page 2

Certification of Responses

I hereby confirm the accuracy of the information provided in the self-assessment with annual survey:

Signature and date from the Program Executive Director or Equivalent

Review the Responses then type in your name and date to confirm that your submission is accurate.

After clicking the "submit" button, remember to then click the "confirm" button.

Contact Name

Contact Email

The purpose of the annual survey is to continue to gather key data that can be summarized on micro- and macro levels, analyzed for trends, funding, policy and other implications. We appreciate your time and effort in completing the Local Program Annual Survey. Thank you.

Sincerely,

The National CASA/GAL Association for Children

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