Volunteer Opportunities

The Mason County Juvenile Court/Probation Services has a history of collaboration with community members in order to better serve our community. The information below provides some general information regarding volunteer opportunities. All volunteers are required to submit a letter of interest and complete an interview with an administrator. In addition, a criminal history record check is required. Training of volunteers is provided by the Juvenile Court staff and includes an overview of Juvenile Court and material specific to the different volunteer areas.

If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, please contact James W. Madsen at (360) 427-9670 ext. 332 for more information.

Volunteer Areas

Community Accountability Board (CAB):

RCW 13.40.020 provides authority for minor first time offenders to complete a diversion process in lieu of a referral to the formal Court system. The CAB is comprised of citizens who hear the matter and determine the sanctions to be imposed. The Community Accountability Board is scheduled on Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday 3:30-5:00 PM.

Community Truancy Board:

In 1995 the legislature passed a law known as the “BECCA BILL”. One piece of this legislation addressed public policy regarding truant youth. This Board conducts a conference with a student and parent in the school building. An Educational Assistant from the school facilitates the conference. The result of these efforts has been improve school and parent communication and to focus on the importance of education. The time commitment is approximately 1-2 hours per week.

Guardian ad Litem (GAL)/Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA):

RCW 13. 34 authorizes the Court to appoint a volunteer to serve as GAL/CASA in Dependency (child abuse/neglect) cases. This volunteer is required to complete a 32-hour state approved curriculum provided by the Juvenile Court staff. Upon completion of the initial training the volunteer receives direct assistance from Juvenile Court staff. This role is focused on gathering relevant information and maintaining contacts with the children. This effort is of great value to staff and the court process. The time commitment is approximately 2-3 hours per week.