The CASA Collectives aim to be open to a diverse array of people by actively recruiting and supporting volunteers from different racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds. All volunteers who are accepted into the program and who meet certain criteria may apply for financial assistance to reduce participation costs. In order to be considered, potential volunteers need to complete the scholarship application in full.

Financial Assistance
Depending on the availability of funds and the applicant’s eligibility and need, the CASA Collective may award individual applicants financial assistance. Generally awards do not exceed $300.

Criteria for selection are:
1. Commitment to fully participate in our program and continue solidarity efforts after returning home,
2. Spanish proficiency, and
3. Financial need (determined through application and follow-up communication).

CASA Scholarship Application:
Please submit a short essay that answers the following questions thoroughly:

1. Please describe your financial need: Are there any special circumstances, financial or otherwise, that we should consider in reviewing your application for financial assistance? How will you be funding your time abroad?  Do you have a support network that can assist with your financial needs?

2. Why do you want to volunteer with us and what do you hope to gain?

Essays should be submitted as a separate document along with your volunteer application.

Grassroots Fundraising Tips and Resources

Given the limited financial support available, CASA recommends fundraising your way to Oaxaca.  Below are a number of links and resources to help you raise funds for your work and expenses in Oaxaca. 

CASA Sample Fundraising Letter: A rough template to help you raise funds for the costs you will inquire in Oaxaca. 

Creative Fundraising Tactics: Includes examples of fundraising strategies you can use.  Written and illustrated by Sha Grogan Brown.  

Fifty three ways to raise $1,000 by Kim Klein

You Can Do it: A Volunteers Guide to Raising Money for your Group: Written and Illustrated by Vicki  Quatmann.  A great popular education resource to seeks allies and donors and raise money.  Buy the full manual here. 

Giving Circles: A Round by Jessica Hoffman and Irina Contras.  A great article about community- based and collectively-minded models for fundraising with some examples how women of color have been successful in supporting in raising funds for their communities.  Published by Make/Shift Feminisms in Motion Magazine

The Grassroots Institute for Fundraising Training (GIFT) is a multiracial organization that promotes the connection between fundraising, social justice, and movement-building.  Their website includes an array of resources and training opportunities for communities of color working on social justice initiatives. 

Why People of Color Need to be Good Fundraisersby Mike Roque in Grassroots Fundraising Journal

Amnesty International: How to Raise Funds