Why did you decide to come work for CASA? My strong desire to make a positive impact on the lives of children in Tarrant County, my commitment to promoting and achieving social justice, my passion for advocacy, and my belief in the importance of supporting those who need it most is what brought me to CASA. Working alongside like-minded colleagues and volunteers that are filled with the same desires, beliefs, values, and drive for positive change has only deepened my commitment and made my experience working at CASA even more meaningful.
What is your professional and educational background? I am an experienced philanthropy officer with over ten years of service to the nonprofit sector. I am most enthusiastic when I am able to collaborate with others to build strategic partnerships, mobilize and educate volunteers, organize events, engage in community-based programs, and do so authentically, ethically, and efficiently. Prior to working with CASA, I spent the past 4 years living and working in Los Angeles. I worked as the Director of Partnership Engagement for American Jewish University and as the Manager of Grants Administration for the Jewish Community Foundation (JCFLA). Prior to moving to California, I lived and worked in Dallas for almost a decade. I worked as the Director of New Initiatives for the Dallas Jewish Community Foundation (DJCF) and for Dallas Area Habitat for Humanity as a Development Associate. Prior to living in Texas, I began my career as an AmeriCorps with Orange County Habitat for Humanity in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. I am elated to continue working in social services with CASA of Tarrant County by recruiting and retaining volunteers who advocate for the best interest of neglected and abused children in our community. I hold a M.A. Degree in Philanthropic Studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy and a B.S. in Business from the University of Maryland. I am excited to set roots in Fort Worth and have joined the LeadershipClass Fort Worth 2024 Cohort. I am thrilled to be back in Texas where I feel most at home.
What first caused you to get involved with CASA? Similar to many of our volunteers, I learned about CASA from a former advocate and was immediately drawn to the mission. I am passionate about uplifting and enriching our community, especially for children, as they are the most vulnerable.
What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? Meeting our dedicated volunteers whose selflessness is making our community and world a better place. I am continuously inspired by the commitment and compassion of our advocates who have an unwavering willingness to speak up for children in need. They provide consistency and hope to those who are navigating challenging circumstances, leading to a brighter future for many children in Tarrant County.
What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA? The most rewarding part of being on staff is seeing the direct impact our volunteer experience has on our advocates, their family, friends, and most importantly on the lives of the children and families we are serving. Through CASA, volunteers gain access to trainings and expertise to learn how to speak up for the best interest of a child. Advocates strive to keep families together when possible, and ensure services and resources are received to help the children overcome their trauma. In my role as the Director of Community Engagement, I have the wonderful privilege of seeking out those exemplary individuals, celebrating their commitment to the children of our community, raising awareness, and spreading the word about the important work of CASA. I am grateful for each advocate that accepts this admirable role. It is an honor to be a part of their volunteer journey.
Please share a special moment with us about your work with CASA volunteers or supporters. Our team recently hosted an in-person CASA information session for American Airlines with their Family Matters Employee Business Resource Group (EBRG). This was the first time that our new Community Engagement Department presented out in the community, and we were honored that over 60 American Airlines employees attended in-person and virtually. During our visit we learned about American Airlines desire to drive diversity efforts and foster company-wide educational, community service and personal enrichment opportunities. Representing many employees and their beliefs, we were able to share about the important work of CASA with a diversity of individuals from all walks of life who were eager to learn more about how they can get involved and make a difference. We are all looking forward to the many ways in which we can collaborate, partner, and work together to help to ensure the safety, well-being, and placement of children in our community.
What would you say to a potential supporter? If you're considering becoming a CASA advocate or donating to support the work of CASA, I encourage you to think about the significant difference you could make in the lives of children who are in the foster care system. Your support could provide them with a consistent and caring advocate, helping to ensure they receive the attention, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. By joining CASA, you have the chance to be a voice for those who often don't have one, and to positively impact their futures. Your contribution, whether through time, resources, or advocacy, can truly change lives.
Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? It is crucial to support CASA in your local community because we address a significant unduplicated social service need. Children in the foster care system face complex challenges, including navigating the legal system, adjusting to new environments, and coping with emotional trauma. CASA volunteers provide consistent support, advocacy, and a caring presence during these critical times. Also, the inspiration for the concept of CASA came from a judge. In 1976, Seattle juvenile court judge David W. Soukup had insufficient information to make a life-changing decision for a 3-year-old girl who had suffered from child abuse. He believed children who experienced abuse or neglect needed trained volunteers speaking up in the courtroom for their best interests. Now with over 40 years of existence and almost 100,000 trained advocates nationwide, CASA is a national movement. With a clear-cut need and well-developed concept, we have continuously seen the impact and success of CASA advocates.
Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? Anyone can be a CASA – if you have an open mind and a giving heart – we need you, children in Tarrant County need you! All it takes is just one caring adult to positively impact the future life of a child.