Ohio CASA launches first ever statewide volunteer in-service training sessions
Multiple free, online trainings open to all CASA volunteers, staff looking to obtain needed training credits
The Ohio CASA/GAL Association is launching free, online volunteer in-service training sessions for CASA volunteers and staff members across Ohio.
In a first-of-its-kind effort, Ohio CASA will host multiple in-service training sessions throughout 2026. 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 current child welfare trends and maintain high-quality advocacy for children.
“We are hopeful these trainings will allow CASA volunteers easy access to high-quality, timely information that will benefit their advocacy,” said Ohio CASA Director of Training Megan Heydlauff, Esq. “These in-service trainings are open and available to CASA volunteers across Ohio and we encourage everyone to register.”
The training sessions will cover essential child welfare topics like understanding the dynamics of domestic violence and how substance use disorders impact families.
One in-service training session will be held in March, followed by a training session in May. The final training courses will be held in the second half of the year and will be announced at a later time.
If you have an interest 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.
2026 Ohio Statewide Volunteer In-Service Trainings
March 25, 2026, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Understanding the Dynamics of Domestic Violence
Presented by Sonia Ferencik, Youth and Trauma Services Manager, Ohio Domestic Violence Network
Domestic violence is pervasive and affects millions of individuals across the United States, regardless of age, economic status, race, religion, education, gender, sexual orientation, or other identities. Individuals who use abusive behavior often make it extremely difficult for victims to leave relationships through tactics such as threats of increased violence, manipulation involving children, and financial control. This session will examine the impact of domestic violence on families and children to help CASA volunteers tailor informed, safety-focused best interest recommendations.
May 4, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.
Substance Use and Parenting
Presented by Dr. Stephanie Tabashneck, PsyD, JD, Licensed Psychologist, Director, CLBB Neurolaw Library, Senior Fellow, Law and Applied Neuroscience. Center for Law, Brain and Behavior at Massachusetts General Hospital, Petrie Flom-Center at Harvard Law School
Substance use disorders frequently co-occur within families involved in the juvenile court system, creating complex, high-risk, and high-conflict cases. This session focuses on navigating juvenile court cases when substance use dynamics are present. Drawing on current research and neuroscience, participants will learn to set realistic expectations, understand the impact of substance use on caregiving and decision-making, and identify practical safeguards that can be incorporated into best interest recommendations to more effectively advocate for children.