A Lasting Impact
My heart was being called to serve and give back to the children in our community. After going to the CASA homes for the holiday tour, I was curious what CASA was all about. After doing a bit of research and attending a CASA Training, I knew that this is exactly where my time needed to be given. I have had only two cases during my time as a CASA. The system unfortunately allows our children to be in care for far too long. As a CASA, I have been able to hold all parties accountable and keep the process moving so that these children find permanency as soon as possible.
Advocating for kids in the system has been so crucial for their well-being throughout the process of them being in care. I have had experiences where the children have been in wonderful foster homes and other situations where it hasn’t been the best circumstances. I hate to think what those children would have experienced if I had not had my eyes on them or had been speaking up for them during that time.
I am thankful for all the support from my CASA supervisors which has allowed me to give my time as a volunteer and still be present in my personal life. The smiles on my CASA kids’ faces when I see them reminds me that the work I am doing has a lasting impact on the next generation.