Ohio CASA announces new round of trainings as part of first-ever statewide volunteer in-service sessions
Multiple free online trainings open to all CASA volunteers, staff looking to obtain required training credits
The Ohio CASA/GAL Association announces the next round of free online volunteer in-service training sessions for CASA volunteers and staff members statewide.
The sessions, which began as a first-of-its-kind effort in 2026, are continuing in 2027. Participants can earn up to 2 hours of continuing education training per course.
CASA volunteers must complete at least 12 hours of in-service continuing education training annually. This standard helps volunteers remain updated on child welfare trends and maintain high-quality advocacy for children.
The trainings will be held in January and April of 2027, covering topics such as caregiver responses in child sexual abuse cases and supporting healthy teen relationships.
If you are interested in completing any of the in-service trainings, read the descriptions below and click the REGISTER button.
Please reach out to [email protected] with any questions.
JANUARY 13, 2027 | 12 P.M. – 2 P.M.
Understanding the Impact of Caregiver Responses in Child Sexual Abuse Cases
Presented by: Cody Tatum, MSW, LSW, Executive Director, Harcum House Child Advocacy Center
Child sexual abuse is one of the most difficult experiences for a child to disclose and one of the most challenging for a caregiver to hear. For CASA volunteers who work closely with children and their parents, understanding how caregivers respond to disclosures of sexual abuse is essential. These responses can significantly influence a child’s sense of self, understanding of their experiences and healing, as well as the progression of their child welfare case. This session will explore the range of caregiver responses to child sexual abuse disclosures, the impact those responses can have on children, and how they may affect outcomes in child welfare cases.
Register for Training
APRIL 21, 2027 | 10 A.M. – 11:30 A.M.
Supporting Healthy Teen Relationships
Presented by: Caitlin Tully, Prevention and Training Manager, The Center for Family Safety and Healing at Nationwide Children’s Hospital
Teens often have limited prior relationship experiences and may not have a blueprint for healthy relationships. At the same time, technology is deeply integrated into their lives and can shape their perceptions of relationships, including through social media influencers and artificial intelligence. This session will equip CASA volunteers with the knowledge and resources to recognize red flags in teen dating relationships and support youth who may be experiencing unhealthy or unsafe dynamics. Volunteers will also explore how to respond when a teen discloses an unsafe relationship, maintain trust while working within the boundaries of their CASA role, and navigate conversations about mandated reporting responsibilities.
Register for Training
