At a Glance
- Program: CASA of Ocean County Pre-Service Volunteer Training
- Sessions: September 15, 22, 29; October 6, 13, 20, 27; November 3
- Format: Held on Tuesdays through the fall 2026 term
- Cost: Free to accepted volunteers
- Minimum age: 21 years old
- Requirements: Background check, State Central Record Bureau check, three references
- Contact: 732-797-0590 or jennifer@casaofoceancounty.org
- Apply: CASA of Ocean County volunteer application
A Local Nonprofit Looking for New Advocates
More than 200 children across Ocean County are currently living in foster care. Many of them lack a steady adult voice in their corner during a difficult chapter. CASA of Ocean County, marking its twentieth year of service, trains community members to fill that role. The organization is now accepting applications for its fall 2026 pre-service training classes.
This training prepares everyday residents, not legal or social work professionals, to become Court Appointed Special Advocates. Volunteers are paired one-on-one with a child navigating the foster care system. From there, they work alongside social workers, teachers, healthcare providers, and family members. The goal is to make sure each child’s needs are seen and addressed.
What the Fall Training Involves
Pre-service training sessions run on Tuesdays starting September 15 and continuing through November 3. Full session dates include September 15, 22, and 29, along with October 6, 13, 20, and 27, and a final class on November 3. Attendance across the series is required to complete certification as a CASA volunteer.
Applicants must meet a few baseline qualifications before training begins. A minimum age of 21 is required, along with strong written and verbal communication skills. Candidates must also pass a background check and a State Central Record Bureau screening. Three references from non-relatives round out the application process.
Interested residents throughout Toms River, Brick, Lakewood, and surrounding towns are encouraged to apply early. Seats in each training cycle are limited, so early applications are recommended.
Why Volunteer Advocates Matter
Foster children often move through several placements, caseworkers, and court dates. A CASA volunteer offers a consistent presence throughout that process. Advocates get to know the child directly, then relay that understanding to judges making decisions about their future.
According to CASA of Ocean County, volunteers come from many backgrounds and professions. No legal or social work experience is necessary going into training. Instead, the organization equips volunteers with the tools and guidance they need. Ongoing support continues well after initial certification wraps up.
This kind of community involvement fits within the broader mission of connecting Ocean County residents to meaningful, service-driven opportunities. For job seekers exploring flexible ways to give back locally, volunteer roles like this one offer a rewarding complement to paid work. Those researching community involvement alongside career development can also browse our local resources hub for additional organizations doing similar work across the county.
How to Apply
Prospective volunteers can start the process by submitting an online application through CASA of Ocean County. The organization’s volunteer page outlines qualifications, training dates, and next steps in detail. Questions about the fall sessions can be directed to the office at 732-797-0590. Applicants can also reach Director of Development Jennifer Gleason directly at jennifer@casaofoceancounty.org.
Residents can also learn more about the organization’s broader mission on the CASA of Ocean County homepage. The site includes details on board leadership, upcoming events, and ways to support the cause beyond direct advocacy work.
Explore More Local Opportunities
Community-based volunteer roles often pair well with career growth and skill building. Ocean County Career Center connects residents with training programs, job placement support, and local resources year-round. Visit our community resources page to find additional organizations, agencies, and programs serving Ocean and Monmouth County. For direct assistance with employment services, reach out through our contact page or call 732-240-5995.
Becoming a CASA volunteer is one meaningful way to invest in the next generation of Ocean County residents. With fall training sessions beginning September 15, now is the time to apply.
