“Sandy has been a CASA advocate since December 2016. Sandy goes above and beyond to advocate for the children. Sandy has recently committed her time to Family drug Court, she meets every other week, two times a week with the Family Drug Court team for staffing’s and hearings. Sandy assist’s parents in what she can so the children can be reunited with their parents. Sandy is dedicated to advocate for the child’s best Interest.” – Mayra Guzman, Child Advocacy Specialist
1. What made you decide to become a CASA?
After retiring from teaching for 37 years I knew I wanted to advocate for kids in some capacity. I had not heard of CASA but saw an ad on TV one day. I looked into it and felt that was what I needed to do.
2. What is your professional/volunteer background?
I was a teacher for 37 years.
3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?
Just know that you must be willing to give adequate time to your case.
4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?
The most challenging is keeping yourself from becoming emotionally attached and watching a mother's rights be terminated. I think the latter is very emotional, even though you know it is in the best interest of the children.
5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?
It is very rewarding when you go visit the child/children and they are excited to see you.
6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case.
Watching children become part of a forever family and knowing you had a small part in that.
7. Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or your CASA experience?
Being a CASA can really have its challenges but knowing that you are there for that child/children adds such a dimension of purpose and satisfaction. We are there to help the children, but I think in a way they help us also.