What made you decide to become a CASA? I decided to become a CASA for three reasons: First, I was fortunate to have part-time jobs during my undergraduate career that involved directly interacting with children. There was always that one child who gravitated to me more than the others, whose parent(s) would ask me to keep in touch so I can stay in their child’s life. Secondly, when “life happened”, and I became a single mom, the village stepped in on occasion and helped me with my son. That village consisted of family, friends, my church community, neighbors, coaches, teachers, and even some co-workers. Yes, I built a support network of people whom we knew were safe, reliable, and who cared. Therefore, my son and I agreed that one day we would pay it forward and partner with single parents directly or through an organization to extend our support and encouragement when possible. Lastly, although I was not subjected to being placed in foster care, I am no stranger to childhood trauma. The difference between me and the children I advocate for through CASA of Tarrant County is that my trauma did not lead to severe emotional, behavioral, or developmental problems.
2. What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is when I witness growth and maturity in a child's life. When a child repeats something constructive you have shared with them, that is evidence that the seed planted may someday produce a fruitful harvest in their life. Next, the Attorney/Guardian Ad Litem and Case Worker I have served alongside for a year and a half, I've had the privilege to listen and observe them in their roles, and they constantly demonstrate their commitment to the children in so many amazing ways. Knowing that they are working in the U.S. legal system fighting for these kids/future adults to be safe, healthy, loved, and have a chance to thrive in life, is meritorious.
3. Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. One of my CASA kids experienced a meltdown hours after being placed in a new foster home. Even though the Ad Litem and Case Worker wanted to physically be there for the child, their schedule did not permit it. I requested the approval of the GAL, Case Worker, and CASA CEO to be there with the child, even though we were in a pandemic. Thankfully, the request was approved almost immediately by all parties. Upon my arrival, I was glad to meet one of the foster parents. My CASA kid was asleep and woke up surprised yet happy to see me in person. After the visit, I was informed of an emergency discharge meeting to remove my CASA kid from the foster parent's home. I was heartbroken at the news because, during my visit and interaction with the child, the foster parent observed the child’s loving and gentle personality. A good kid who deserved a chance to live in a safe home with a loving family and have an opportunity to just be a kid. Fortunately, the discharge meeting was canceled and as we take one day and one situation at a time, my CASA kid is still bonding with the foster family.
4. What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? My favorite way to connect with my CASA kids is by playing games with them, such as UNO, Connect Four, Checkers, Jenga, etc., or helping them with a subject they are struggling with at school. Children will communicate their struggles with you if they trust you and feel safe with you. I have interacted with my CASA kids in person as well as virtually. Although nothing can replace an in-person visit, a virtual visit utilizing a video communication platform is much better than a phone call because you can still see their sweet faces and discern if everything is truly “okay” with them.
5. Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? For a foster child to have a CASA during a chaotic time is important because they will have someone who is both objective and subjective when it is appropriate. As a CASA, I've been able to be a consistent and stable force in the CASA kids’ lives while assisting with the navigation through the chaos. Serving as the child’s voice to the judge and articulating their best interests and needs are critically important. Although a CASA may be the primary face they see, other resourceful people are working behind the scenes, like my CASA Specialist, Megan, my immediate go-to person. For instance, Megan has made it possible for me to provide, food, clothes, coats, books, diapers, wipes, toys, and games for my kids through the CASA donations. There is a saying, “you’re only as good as your team.”