Volunteers are carefully screened and must complete 30 hours of initial training before being assigned to a case. Volunteer trainings are generally held twice a year in the evenings. Once assigned to a case, volunteers make phone calls and visits with the child, family members, therapists, caseworkers, lawyers, teachers and others involved in the child’s life. Volunteers attend court hearings and meetings on behalf of the child and advocate for the child’s best interest. They also prepare written reports for the court which describe the information gathered and recommendations for securing a permanent, safe home for the child. Staff closely supervise each case and are available to assist and advise the volunteers as needed.