Snohomish County

About the Snohomish County Juvenile Court CASA/VGAL Program

The goal of the Snohomish County VGAL (Volunteer Guardian ad Litem) Program is to ensure that a child's right to a safe and permanent home is acted on by the Court in a sensitive and expedient manner. In Snohomish County, approximately 1,700 children are involved in dependency proceedings due to abuse, neglect, or abandonment. Some children are placed in foster care and others are placed with a relative, but all need someone to speak up for what is in their best interests. In takes about 10-15 hours a month to be a VGAL - the work is hard, but the results are extremely gratifying. 

Community volunteers who give their time to serve as VGALs come from all walks of life and all share a willingness to listen, a concern for families in our community, and have the determination to speak up and make a difference in the life of a child. VGALs are an amazing force for good, but there is a great need for more of them. Are you or someone you know ready to speak up for a child? Take the initiative to inquire today about the power you have to change a child's life. Contact the Snohomish County Superior/Juvenile Court Community Services Unit at (425)388-7854 or csu@snoco.org for more information and upcoming initial volunteer training dates.

About Snohomish County VGAL Training

The Snohomish County VGAL Program offers initial Intensive VGAL (RCW Title 13) training three times per year (Winter, Spring, and Fall). The program training is 32 hours including an interview, three days of training (two Saturdays and a Wednesday) and homework. Before being accepted into the VGAL program, the volunteer applicant must complete an application and interview, pass a criminal background check, and complete the 32 hours of training. Primary goals of the training are:

• To give specific guidelines as to the role and function of a VGAL;
• To impart knowledge of the Juvenile Court Dependency System and the support services provided by the VGAL Program, and;
• To provide training in necessary skills needed to perform the role of the VGAL, such as interviewing, report writing, and testifying. Case consultation with the program coordinator, legal support by program attorneys, and monthly in-service trainings are provided to all volunteers.

Ongoing in-service training is regularly available to further develop the volunteer's individual skills and knowledge. 

Snohomish County Superior Court celebrates 30 years of advocating for children!

On October 24, 2008, the Snohomish County Superior Court celebrated 30 years of advocating for abused and neglected children. The masquerade themed event was held at Marysville Opera House to salute the accomplishments of the Superior Court's Community Services Unit over the past 30 years. Snohomish County established the 2nd CASA/VGAL program in the nation in 1978. 

"There is no greater insight into the future than recognizing... when we save children, we save ourselves." - Margaret Mead