A well-trained, well-staffed volunteer force is essential to the success of Friends of the Portsmouth Juvenile Court’s programs. Whether you prefer working on the front lines or behind the scene, there are several volunteer opportunities available.

Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA)
CASA volunteers advocate for abused, neglected or abandoned children. The volunteer investigates assigned case(s) and presents a recommended course of action to Portsmouth Juvenile Court judges. Candidates must be at least 25 years old, attend a 34-hour training course and give a minimum one year commitment.

Court Monitor
Court Monitors manage the information desk for the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. Volunteers assist visitors with directions and answer general questions regarding the court process. Monitors are needed one to two days per week.

Court Services Associate
Court Services Associates assist probation and parole officers in all aspects of work related to juvenile offenders. Candidates must be at least 18 years old preferably with or pursuing a human services degree. This position can also serve as an internship.

Mentor
Mentors provide one-on-one mentoring to Portsmouth middle school aged children. Candidates must be at least 18 years old, complete a 3-hour training course, provide his or her own transportation and commit to one hour per week for one school year.

Office Associate
Office Associates provide general administrative support to FRIENDS’ staff. Candidates should be proficient with Microsoft Office and have good written and verbal communications skills. This position requires a minimum commitment of three-months.

Substance Abuse Screener
Substance Abuse Screeners administer the SASSI (Substance Abuse Screening Instrument) test to juveniles referred by the court. Screeners are needed at least one day a week; Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. - 1 p.m.

TMC Driver
The TMC (Transportation for Motivating Change) driver transports family members of incarcerated children to Virginia correctional centers for visitation. Candidates must be at least 23 years old with an excellent DMV record.

Worksite Supervisor
Volunteers supervise teenagers referred to Friends Community Service program. Worksite Supervisors provide guidance, structure and direction to program participants while demonstrating a positive work ethic.

All volunteer candidates must submit an application with 3 references; successfully complete a criminal history, DMV and Child Protective Services search; meet program criteria and complete required training.

Act now, just a few hours of your time each month can make a difference.
You will be amazed by how much you will take away. To get involved,

Contact FRIENDS