1. What made you decide to become a CASA?
My daughter worked as a Case Manager at a local Child Placing Agency. She told me about CASA and the role that CASA volunteers play in CPS cases. She also old me that many children were not being assigned CASA volunteers due to their not being enough. She encouraged me to consider being a volunteer and thought that it would be a way for me to be a part of a child’s life.
2. What is your professional/ volunteer background?
I work as an accountant and have served in that professional role for almost 33 years. When my children were in elementary school I volunteered in the school as a Helping Hand. I have also volunteered in our local church throughout the years.
3. What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA?
If you are thinking about becoming a CASA volunteer, I would highly recommend that you step up and become a part of this incredible organization. You don’t have to have any background experience in the child welfare system in order to become a voice for a child. The organization does an excellent job at training volunteers and having staff to support you through your entire journey.
4. What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA?
The most challenging part of being a CASA volunteer is hearing the stories of abuse and neglect that children have been through.
5. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA?
The most rewarding feeling is knowing that you have helped reunite a child or to help them find permanency in a forever home.
6. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case?
A special moment that stands out to me is when I went to visit my little girl at daycare. I had met her previously but was not certain that she would remember who I was. However, as soon as I walked through the door and she saw me, her face lit up and she ran over towards me with her arms extended. It was a heartwarming moment that I will always cherish.
If you are ever looking for a place to volunteer, this is an incredible organization that is fulfilling, meaningful and worthwhile.
“CAS Stephen Shaw said, “Kelly Rippetoe has a case with two children that will be adopted soon. She is a great advocate that is responsible, dependable, compassionate, and very devoted to her case. Kelly was also instrumental in contacting CASA in the state of Arkansas to make visits to the adoptive family’s home to make sure that the home was safe and appropriate for the kids. She also attended service plan meetings, attended all court hearings, and prepared court reports. CASA of Tarrant County is very fortunate to have Kelly as an Advocate.”