Texas CASA Volunteer Council Spotlight

In an effort to form a new strategy around volunteer recruitment and retention, the Statewide Volunteer Council was developed as an advisory group working in collaboration with Texas CASA’s Chief Network Service Officer, Deedra Baker, and Strategic Network Services Director, Dennise Jackson. Members of the Volunteer Council consisted of current CASA volunteers who were nominated by their programs across the state. Along with giving guidance and recommendations for Texas CASA’s endeavors, the Volunteer Council members also provided input on advocacy best practices, volunteer training and more. 

Beginning in fiscal year 2024, the Volunteer Council sent out a survey to all CASA Volunteers across the state. More than 500 volunteers provided input, sharing their invaluable insights and experiences, and helping us identify areas for growth and improvement. Based on the insights gathered from the volunteer survey, the Council members were organized into three sub-committees: Retention, Recruitment and Training. Each sub-committee reviewed and analyzed the survey results and feedback, engaging in discussions to develop actionable strategies. A one-pager was created for local programs to show their key recommendations and strategies derived from the survey findings.

For their final act of service, the Volunteer Council hosted a statewide virtual training where they explored how to build stronger relationships with CASA volunteers based on key findings from their statewide volunteer survey. This heartfelt and insightful discussion shared the perspectives of CASA volunteers and reminded them that the power of relationships is the driving force behind Recruitment, Training and Retention.

If you are interested in reading the survey and handout or watching the recorded training, visit the Statewide Volunteer Council section in the Program Portal. We are deeply grateful for their time and dedication to this council.