The health and well-being of our volunteers, the children and families we serve, and our staff continues to be paramount. We have adjusted our practices and protocols to prioritize safety while still supporting our essential advocacy for children in need. As the situation evolves, we will continue to evaluate our practices and response. 

Phase 3 Child Visits

You are permitted to have in-person visits with your assigned child, following CDC guidelines, when both you and the placement are comfortable doing so. In-person visits are not required. You should make decisions regarding in-person visits based upon your own unique health needs. Should you decide to have in-person visits with children and families, CDC guidelines should be strictly followed.

Social distancing, masks and regular handwashing are required. Masks should be worn at all times and food and drink should be avoided during in-person contact with children and families. Visits can also be conducted outdoors or virtually. If you have been fully vaccinated, pursuant to CDC guidelines, you can visit indoors with others who have been fully vaccinated without masks and social distancing. For complete guidance, visit the CDC website. 

Transporting your assigned child is now permitted, following CDC guidelines and with the approval of the placement and the Department of Social Services. 

Staying in contact with your child or youth during this period continues to be as important as ever. Being available to your youth and his or her caregivers to check in, lend support, or facilitate communication continues to be a very important part of your role. CASA is asking that each volunteer maintain contact with children and youth and/or their caregivers by video chat or phone call once per week. 

We encourage you to share any challenges you face in the coming weeks with your Case Supervisor. We appreciate your commitment to your CASA youth’s well-being. 

Should there be a disruption of your child’s placement OR should you identify household needs that need to be addressed, please advise your Case Supervisor immediately. 

Phase 4 Courthouse Operations

The Circuit Court for Anne Arundel County shall resume Phase IV operations on March 15, 2021. Due to occupancy limits in the courtrooms, hearings not requiring testimony will continue to be held remotely. Hearings requiring testimony will be held in person. If the capacity limit of the courtroom in which the hearing is being is met, it may mean the CASA volunteers and staff will have to stay in the hallway outside of the courtroom.

The court will do everything possible to secure a larger courtroom if necessary and possible. Phase V (full resumption of courthouse operations) is set to begin on April 26, 2021. CASA volunteers should stay in communication with his or her case supervisor to be sure of the status of hearings.