Restoring Hope: The Powerful Role of CASA in Rebuilding a Broken Family

In 2018, we shared the story of Cole, Catie, and Chloe - three young children suffering physical and emotional abuse at the hands of their mother’s boyfriend while she was at work. 

Overwhelmed and isolated, their mother, Crystal, needed help. CASA volunteers Jennifer and John stepped in, recognizing her potential to turn her life, and her children’s, around with the right support. “I didn’t really have anyone,” Crystal recalls. “I was working multiple jobs and trusting my children’s biological father to care for them.”

With CASA’s help, Crystal completed all required services with CPS, secured a full-time job, and moved into her own apartment. Because of her dedication and CASA volunteers’ advocacy, Crystal reunited with her children. 

Now, six years later, Crystal is happily married, and her children have a loving stepfather. Cole, Catie, and Chloe are happy and thriving. Reflecting on her journey, Crystal shares, “I have learned that I would do anything to keep my children from being hurt physically or emotionally ever again. Time is precious, and I wish I could bottle up these years.”

How You Can Help More Broken Families

We hope you can join us again this year for North Texas Giving Day - a day of giving back to our communities. This year, we’re incredibly grateful for Happy State Bank for matching gifts up to $10,000 - making your impact go even further!

Hear it from Crystal: “My CASAs were exceptional... everyone should have shirts made that say, ‘BE LIKE John & Jennifer.’” We invite you to BE LIKE John & Jennifer! Help CASA to continue advocating for the numerous children still awaiting for a CASA volunteer, and provide families like Crystal’s with the support they need to overcome challenges and rebuild their lives. Because without the powerful voice of an advocate, they are vulnerable to being lost in an overburdened system.

Every dollar towards our $10,000 match changes lives in our community. Mark your calendar for Thursday, September 19, from 6 a.m. to midnight. Early giving opens on September 1, so you can schedule your gift in advance. Your donation to CASA of Tarrant County on North Texas Giving Day gives children the care and advocacy they need to survive and thrive. Visit givetocasa.org to give today!

Meet Community Engagement Specialist Suzanne C. Yowell, CVA

Why did you decide to come work for CASA? I like to think it was fate that brought me to CASA. With nearly 30 years of experience in community engagement and nonprofit work, I had no doubt that working with the community and volunteers was the field I belonged in. After experiencing a string of personal losses within a few short months, including the passing of my husband, I found myself craving a new energy, a new mission focus, and subsequently-a path to healing. CASA felt like the perfect place to bring my experience and passion for community engagement, while also finding the renewal and purpose I was seeking. I knew after my first meeting with the staff, I had found my people, my home.

 What is your professional and educational background? I studied Nonprofit Management, Business Finance and Project Management at TCU and later obtained my CVA-Certified Volunteer Administrator credential. But it was my field training with the University of Pennsylvania’s School of Social Policy, closely followed by Asset Based Community Development training with the faculty from DePaul University, that really shined a light on the magic of relationship building, identifying people’s gifts and community resources, and understanding how to bring them all together to make our communities strong.

Prior to joining the CASA team, I was blessed to serve as the state director of a national nonprofit for many years, working to build the capacity of numerous faith groups and nonprofits statewide. I also served as the Coordinator of Volunteer Recruitment and Engagement with Meals on Wheels of Tarrant County.

What has been the most rewarding part of being on staff at CASA? The most rewarding part of being on the CASA team is, of course, knowing the positive impact the organization has on the lives of children. I’m also in awe daily of the “can do” spirit of the staff. No matter what obstacle or challenge is placed in front of them, the resolve to rise to the occasion time and time again is genuine and powerful. We are on this mission together, for the children!

Please share a special moment with us about your work with CASA volunteers or supporters. I’ve had many special moments with volunteers but one volunteer that inspires me so much is our most senior CASA-Mr. Heard Floor. Heard is in his 80’s and is adamant that regardless of age, a person can give back and make a positive impact on the lives of others, one way or another. And he has done just that by being a tireless advocate for children. He is such a great role model for others-young and older alike!

What would you say to a potential supporter? I would say to someone considering financial support of the organization, the return on your investment in CASA goes far beyond today, this month, or even this year. The value of changing a child’s life is immeasurable-it is an impact that can ripple through future generations, helping break cycles of neglect and abuse, and create a brighter future not only for that child but for the broader community as well. We need your support to help every child have a voice and a chance to thrive and eventually contribute to society in a meaningful, positive way. That’s a significant return on your investment.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? The outcome for these children will influence all of us, positive or negative. Together, with support from the community, we can make it positive! The quote “it takes a village to raise a child” could not be truer. It takes a whole community to support a child with positive interactions and encouragement to ensure he or she has room to grow strong in a healthy and safe manner. These children are the future for our community. Everyone can play a vital role. Volunteer to be a voice for a child, make a financial contribution, or simply help us share our message with others.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers?  Thank you for the selfless gift of time and kindness and perseverance. You are giving these children a fighting chance at a positive path forward. I think what you are doing is one of the most courageous and impactful acts of volunteerism and we are beyond grateful to you for your service.

Meet Young Professional Council Member David Moreno

📣 Young Professional Council Member Spotlight: David Moreno

David Moreno is currently a Relationship Manager/Trust Officer with First Financial Trust and Asset Management Co., N.A. He has lived in Fort Worth his entire life and is proud to call Tarrant County home. He graduated from Amon-Carter Riverside High School and the University of North Texas.

David says, “I first heard of CASA through volunteering and working with another non-profit and I was able to see the importance of the phenomenal work that they do for the children in our communities. I was moved by the stories and dedication of the volunteers and great people at CASA and felt strongly that when the opportunity presented itself I wanted to be a part of the great work they are doing in Tarrant County. I am excited to be of service and get to learn more about CASA, as well as meet the leadership, volunteers, other council members and all the dedicated people who work hard to make a difference in the children’s lives.” 

David has been married to his best friend Sabrina Moreno for five years and they have two children: four year old son Micah and two year old daughter Galileia. He is an avid sports fan and enjoys soccer, football, baseball and golf. He also enjoys serving at church, watching films and occasionally video games.   

From CASA Volunteer Heard Floore

From CASA Volunteer Heard Floore:

Let me share a story with you – a story that has shaped my life purpose and led me to reach out to you today.

Ten years ago, I welcomed two teenage brothers into my home to provide them with the love and care they desperately needed. Little did I know that becoming a foster, and then adoptive, parent would mark the beginning of a profound journey.

As I became more involved in their lives, I learned about the challenges they faced within the foster care system. Witnessing their struggles ignited a fire in me to make a difference not just in their lives, but in the lives of other children facing similar hardships. This experience led me to become a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) volunteer, where I have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of advocacy and compassionate care.

Now in the middle of my first case, I have watched my CASA children thrive in a safe and loving environment. I’m regularly inspired by their uncle, a single adult with no kids of his own, who has unconditionally accepted responsibility for these precious children.

One child—a five-year-old girl—is blossoming into a happy, playful kid in her new environment. She and her younger brother have rarely experienced the consistent and unconditional care of an adult in their lives until now. Being a reliable, caring presence in their lives has allowed me to build a meaningful, trusting and ongoing relationship with them. 

After one of my recent visits, this little girl ran up to me and gave me a huge hug, saying, “I love you and wish you lived here with us all the time.” It’s these heartfelt moments that reaffirm the impact we can have on a child’s life. With your help, we can break the cycles of abuse and trauma, and co-create healthier, happier lives for children in crisis.

I invite you to stand alongside me to make an impact in the lives of these vulnerable children.

I cannot do what I do without you. Because of you, we will reach more children in need, providing them with the hope and love they deserve. Together, we can be the guiding light in a child’s life, offering them a gift that will long outlast our presence on this earth. And isn’t that what we are here for?

2024 Child Abuse Prevention Month

Pictured From Left to Right: Randy Williamson, Southlake City Council Member, Place 6, Kathy Talley, Southlake Deputy Mayor Pro Tem - Place 1, John Huffman, Mayor, City of Southlake, Amy Torres-Lepp, Southlake City Council Member, Place 5, Don Binnicker, CEO, CASA of Tarrant County, Kristy Odom, Board of Directors, CASA of Tarrant County and Southlake Resident, Randy Robbins, Southlake City Council Member, Place 2

April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, and CASA of Tarrant County is raising awareness of  the need for more dedicated members of the community to step up and become CASA volunteers, and help end child abuse and neglect, through supporting children and their families. This April, consider stepping up to make a difference by becoming a CASA volunteer. In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month 2024, CASA of Tarrant County has pinwheel installations and special events around the county:

Grapevine - Colleyville - Southlake Events

• Southlake Town Square Pinwheel Installation: April 1-12

• Coffee with CASA at Jane’s Southlake: April 3, 8:30-10:30am

HEB - NRH Events

• North Richland Hills Library Pinwheel Installation: April 1-14

• Bedford YMCA Pinwheel Installation: April 1-30

• Information Session at the Bedford YMCA: April 23, 12:30pm

Fort Worth - Azle Events

• Southwest Fort Worth Library: April 8-12

• Reata West Apartments: April 1-30

• Tater Club Learning Center: April 1-30

• Azle Lions Club: April 1-30

• Information Session at the Southwest Fort Worth Library: April 9, 12pm

• Coffee with CASA at Love Local Coffee Shop, Fort Worth: April 9, 8:30-10:30am

• Coffee with CASA at Casa Azul: April 12, 8-10am

Arlington - Mansfield Events

• Levitt Pavilion, Arlington Pinwheel Installation: April 10-26

• Coffee with CASA at Inclusion Coffee, Arlington: April 17, 8:30-10:00am

Thank You Volunteers!

CASA staff say THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteers!

It’s National Volunteer Week, and we want to say THANK YOU to our dedicated volunteer advocates, who work tirelessly to serve the abused and neglected children in our community.

From the White House Proclamation on National Volunteer Week: “Volunteering defines America.  Our Nation is a place where light triumphs over darkness, where we seek to lift everyone up, and where we lead not by the example of our power but by the power of our example.  As those who volunteer know firsthand, service also benefits the volunteer.  It can teach important skills, help build professional networks, and provide an empowering sense of purpose.  Volunteering brings people together, uniting us around our common belief in the dignity and equality of every person and giving us a chance to learn from others we might otherwise never meet.”

To celebrate, we are highlighting three outstanding CASA volunteers today and are hosting a volunteer brunch this week! THANK YOU!

Meet CASA Pam Darrow

What caused you to get involved with CASA? My increasing concern about human trafficking in the DFW area

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The occasions when my CASA kids are thriving, acting like normal teenagers, and can see a positive future for their lives. As I have worked with teens, I enjoy helping them with life skills for independent living. I was also thrilled when one of my teens asked if could buy a Bible for her. I gave her a teen study Bible and a card with verses to help when you are feeling certain emotions.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? Visits and phone calls, discussions of their interests and activities

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. One of my kids told me that she loves me totally out of the blue, I finally felt that she was beginning to trust me. Another realized that she doesn’t want to just survive, but wants to live a good life.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? Attending 5 Stones Task Force monthly meetings, the anti human trafficking task force for Tarrant county. I have heard many speakers who have been helpful to me as a CASA and have contacted some speakers for further information and guidance. I have also learned a great deal about trauma and how to relate to those with a trauma past by reading the book “The Body Keeps The Score”.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Being a CASA is a great way to contribute to the community and helping to break the cycle of abuse and neglect. It can be emotionally challenging, but very rewarding if you can compartmentalize issues and remain positive in your life. It helps a great deal to have a Helping Heart who does some CASA training so that you have an extra sounding board when you need it.

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Meet CASA Mark Skaggs

What caused you to get involved with CASA? I never had kids of my own; I suppose it wasn’t in the cards.  But I’ve always loved kids and wondered over the years how I could make a positive input on the kids in our community.  Then one day I heard about CASA on the radio.  I soon went to an orientation session, and I was hooked.  CASA was the perfect place for me.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? It is especially rewarding to witness over time my CASA kids’ sense of self-worth and confidence grow, their anger and confusion dissipate, and seeing them explore their worlds in just being kids.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? There are so many ways, and all of them over activities.  Throwing a football, kicking a soccer ball, bicycle riding, and board games are our usual go-to events.  The most important thing is to find the setting or activity that they most like and are comfortable with.  For example, a favorite shared pastime with my youngest CASA kid is to hunt for pecans together, and then judge their tastiness.  For this hyper kid, that is our most relaxed time together, and which can open deeper conversations as to what’s on his mind, what may be troubling him, and what his dreams are.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. For over a year in my case, my CASA brothers lived separately in two different group facilities, 2 ½ hours apart.  From their chaotic and at-risk background, the brothers’ emotional connection to each other was their only reliable one throughout their young lives, and it was heartbreaking to see them placed separately.  However, working with caretakers I was able to arrange bringing the brothers together for the first time in months on the older brother’s birthday.  Seeing their first embrace, and then playing together, is a memory I will treasure for a lifetime.  A few months ago, they were miraculously placed together in a foster family who wishes to adopt.  Visiting their new home for the first time and seeing the brothers in their noisy and happy environment completely lifted me.

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? A couple of templates I’ve developed come to mind.  I’ve written a letter of introduction for schools that briefly describes CASA’s background and its role in a student’s life, the purpose for wanting to speak with teachers and coaches, with attached court assignment letter and ID badge.  This has proved useful in opening doors.  I’ve also developed a handy (to me) Excel template for tracking mileage, gifts, and out of pocket expenses and for tax purposes.   Finally, I’ve used the Google Translator app for communications with my CASA kids’ biological father, who speaks only Spanish.  However, my most important resource is my network of collaboration with my CASA Child Advocacy Specialist, OC-OK, ad litem, and other key caretakers in my CASA kids’ orbit.  I can’t emphasize enough the importance of nurturing this important network!

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? Don’t ever doubt whether you can be an effective CASA Volunteer.  If you genuinely care, then you’ve got the most important ingredient.  When you really care, your CASA kids will know it, and it can make a difference in their lives.  Finally, I especially encourage men to step forward to volunteer.  Guys, there’s really nothing like it, and seeing the fruits of trust reflecting in kids’ eyes where it was lacking so much before.  These kids desperately need a solid male to model stability, accountability, and care.  Rewarding?  Oh, yeah.

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Meet CASA Shannon Sanchez

What caused you to get involved with CASA? One thing I have learned is never to say “never.” Originally from Virginia, I was required to travel to Texas two to three times a year for a number of years and said that I would never move to Texas. Not that I have anything against this beautiful state, but I am an east coast girl born and bred. But here I am.

I am not a religious person, but I do believe that God orders my steps and in 2019 I felt the call to move to Texas. Specifically, the Dallas-Fort Worth area and at the time I did not know why. I just knew that I had to go.

After being here for several years, my contract ended, so I began looking for another position on LinkedIn and stumbled across a profile for a Child Protection Policy Manager. I became intrigued. Coming from a policy background, I thought how amazing it would be to be able to merge my experience in policy along with my passion for helping others. I sent the individual a message, we then connected on Zoom, and from there she introduced me to the Public Policy Director for Texas CASA, Ms. Sarah Crockett. Sarah and I scheduled a zoom meeting where she shared with me about her role in her official capacity as well as her role a volunteer as an advocate. Yet again, intrigued. I wanted to know more. So, I signed up for the Texas CASA information session and the rest is history.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? I helped raise another child who I consider as my own, but I did not see this again in my future once my girls were grown. Again, never say never. Being able to impact another child’s life through advocacy has been one of my life’s greatest joys. Seeing the smile on my CASA child’s face lights up my day. Being told that he was once mute but knowing that he freely opens up and speaks to me is something that I do not take lightly.

What’s your favorite way to connect with your CASA kids? We connect through conversation, games and our favorite snack – Hot Cheetos. We speak frequently about various topics from school, sports, his concerns, etc. Every month, I have lunch with him at school and we end our time by playing a game of UNO. Which he always wins by the way.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kids. After dropping off donated gifts to him a few days before Christmas, he still requested that I come back to spend some time with him on Christmas day. That spoke volumes to me. His request was granted, and the two-hour drive was worth it. 

Have you used a resource that you would like to share with other CASA volunteers? I utilize various resources to assist him and his family from organizations like Chosen Ones in Fort Worth to DFW Angels located in Dallas that provide mentorship services for children in the foster care system. I encourage CASAs to use every resource at their disposal. I have reached out to businesses and nonprofits for sponsorships and my CASA child was afforded the opportunity to participate in his first football camp this upcoming summer with professional NFL players. His dream is to become a professional football player when he grows up. Unfortunately, children in the system do not always have the privilege of participating in extracurricular activities or having things like a cell phone or driving privileges as a teenager. Playing football has always been a dream of his, so I wanted to see how we could make this dream come true for him. In camp this summer, he will have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of football from the pros and learn his position. I believe that this is only the beginning for him.

What would you say to someone that is on the fence about becoming a CASA? If someone was on the fence about becoming a CASA, I would say don’t hesitate. Jump off and get involved. You never know the impact that you could have on a child’s life. Our kids need you and your involvement could change the trajectory of their life forever.  I believe one of the reasons I was sent to Texas was to help change lives and I am honored that I was given this opportunity through Texas CASA, and you can make a difference too!

Not only have I helped play a small part in my bud’s life (that’s my nickname for him), but he has also changed my life in so many ways as well.

Social Work - the “Helping Profession”

Social Work - the “Helping Profession” by Child Advocacy Specialist Emalee Lyne, LMSW

Why are Social Workers Important?

Social work is often named the “helping profession”. The primary mission of the social work profession, “is to enhance human well-being and help meet basic and complex needs of all people, with a particular focus on those who are vulnerable, oppressed, and living in poverty.”1 Brené Brown says, “Social work is all about leaning into the discomfort of ambiguity and uncertainty, and holding open an empathic space so people can find their own way. In a word—messy.”2

Social workers work in many areas including aging, behavioral health, child welfare, clinical social work, counseling, crisis management, healthcare, non-profit management, public policy, school social work, substance abuse, and social and economic justice. Social workers provide knowledge, education, and encouragement to change whole communities. “When social workers are active in a community, it tends to have a positive impact on crime rates, health statistics, school attendance and employment.”3 In order to make a difference in communities, we see the importance of both large-scale change and individual change of those who make up the communities. The social work process includes meeting people and communities where they are at, assessing the situation and identifying strengths, assisting in developing individual and community goals, initiate strategies and interventions, and then monitor for success.

Social workers are important because they do not shy away from hard situations. They are not afraid to enter communities and the lives of individuals. Social workers build trust, show empathy, and walk with others to create change. Social workers do not provide instructions and then leave. We allow others to lead the way and walk alongside them, often carrying some of the baggage to make their load lighter. 

As a Licensed Master Social Worker, I believe my skills and background assist me in my role as a Child Advocacy Specialist. I not only am able to display social work values and helping skills directly to children and families, but I am able to model and teach our volunteers. I believe these small moments of teaching can create more social-work minded individuals in our community. This will hopefully lead to socially conscious community members, create positive social change, and increase compassion and love for one another.  

1.     https://www.socialworkers.org/Careers/NASW-Career-Center/Explore-Social-Work/Why-Choose-the-Social-Work-Profession

2.     Brené Brown, Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

3.     https://onlinemsw.fsu.edu/blog/social-worker-role

Meet Training Specialist Sharon Young

Meet Sharon! She’s our Training Specialist here at CASA!

“Hi, I’m Sharon. I became interested in joining CASA when a colleague spoke to me about the mission of CASA. Safety, Permanency, and Healing. This is what we all need, but especially as a child. I have essentially worked with children my entire life. I began my professional career as a pediatric nurse. After returning to college, I graduated from SMU with a master’s degree in Anthropology. I continued to work with families and children through refugee resettlement programs and then as a case manager and life skills specialist with the International Foster Care program at Catholic Charities. I began CASA of Tarrant County as a Child Advocacy Specialist and became the Training Specialist in 2019.

At CASA I have witnessed the impact that a committed, compassionate adult can have in the life of a child from a hard place. It is very rewarding when a CASA shares how they have made a meaningful connection with a child, advocated for expanded services for a child or their family, or impacted the outcome of the legal case, all in pursuit of the best interest of a child.  I get to see through their eyes the importance of the work they do and the pride they feel in the knowledge that they made a difference in the life of a hurting child.

To our wonderful CASA volunteers, I say “Thank You!!!” CASA of Tarrant County was built upon your passion and hard work. We know we ask so much of you, and you continuously come forward to give of yourselves to this simple, yet monumental effort: that each child in foster care gets their best chance of reaching their potential.”

Thanking the Small Businesses that Support Our Cause!

This week marks National Small Business Week, and we wanted to thank the many small businesses that support our cause year round! In March we hosted our 6th Annual Clay Shoot where we raised nearly $100,000—thank you to the donors and businesses that made this happen!

Meet CASA Volunteer Andrini Hendarton

What made you decide to become a CASA? I truly believe every child deserves the chance to have a bright future.  A CASA volunteer in my Facebook network shared posts about the organization, and I was inspired to serve as the voice of the child 

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? I am a new volunteer, and have had 2 cases of younger children.  The most rewarding part is helping and seeing them “be a child” despite what they have experienced

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. With the help of CASA I signed up one child in a little league baseball and another child in piano lessons.  I very much looked forward to watching them play baseball and playing a song on the piano

What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kid(s)? Since both of my cases are younger children, I bring board games, coloring books on my visits so I can engage with the children in a playful setting.  That has helped form a connection and they know I am there to support them

Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? I believe it is important for the children to know there are people on their side, whose primary concerns are to care about their well-being.  There might have been changes in their lives, but a CASA volunteer is a constant presence they can depend on.

Happy Women’s History Month!

Happy Women’s History Month!

Written by Catelyn Devlin, LMSW – Director of Grants & Contracts

March is International Women’s Month, and we are grateful for all the torchbearers who went before us, lighting the way on how to speak up as advocates. Being the first can be a lonely experience, and we are grateful for their heroism and leadership in carving a path for more to follow in their footsteps. Some of the bold and brave women we want to highlight this month include:

·      Grace Lee Boggs – a Chinese American philosopher and social activist. She participated in the 1941 March on Washington. In a spirit of volunteerism shared by CASA, she created Detroit Summer which brought hundreds of volunteers together to work with Detroit children and create community gardens.

·      Dr. Antonia C. Novello – the first woman and the first Hispanic Surgeon General of the United States under George H.W. Bush in 1990. Dr. Novello focused on childhood immunization, the impact of HIV/AIDS on children, global nutrition, childhood injury prevention, and improved health care for Hispanic and Black communities.

·      Saint and Reverend Dr. Pauli Murray – Pauli Murray was a civil rights activist who was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus to White passengers in 1940 – fifteen years before Rosa Parks followed in Murray’s footsteps by refusing to give up her seat in 1955. Pauli Murray became a lawyer at Howard University, coined the term Jane Crow to describe the intersection of misogynoir experienced by Black women, and worked to include “sex” as a protected characteristic in the 1964 Civil Rights Act which prohibited discriminating against women in the workplace. Later in life she became the first African American woman to be ordained as an Episcopal priest and became an Episcopal saint after her death.

How are you honoring and celebrating Women’s History this month? We’d love to hear from you!

Images obtained from Pauli Murray Center and The New Yorker

Hanukkah Sameach! A Spotlight on CASA Volunteer Maria

Hanukkah sameach! In celebration of the season, we are spotlighting CASA volunteer Maria who discusses how her Jewish faith and values led her to become a CASA.

Maria says,

“The thing that made me decide to become a CASA was hearing about it from a friend. The second I heard about CASA’s mission and what I could do as a CASA I knew I wanted to join. The most rewarding part of being a CASA is definitely getting to see the difference I made with the family I worked with. Watching a family be able to reconvene was so special.

A special moment from my case was when I was able to spend time with the children and see the difference that I was making. Having the children get excited to see me showed me how important I was to them. My favorite way to connect with my CASA kids is to read to them and play with them. Watching the kids light up when I read to them is something I won’t forget.

I think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster youth for many reasons. One reason is because foster youth go through so much and see so many different people, and having a constant person can help with emotional and mental health.

My Jewish faith has always been the backbone of why I do everything that I do. Helping others is something that has always been important to me, and is important in Judaism. Becoming a CASA was something that I knew I had to do because of the impact I could make through it. I would encourage everyone, including those in the Jewish community, to get involved with CASA by either volunteering or donating anything they can during this holiday season. Donating toys, clothes, books, etc can help a child more than you think.

National Philanthropy Day: A Celebration of You

This day in particular recognizes the impact philanthropy has on our communities. We take pause in our work, our mission, needs in our community, and our endless to-do lists to celebrate the generosity and dedication of those that support us.

We are all well-aware of the impacts COVID-19 have had on our communities. Funding resources were reduced dramatically, for some, cut all together. With that funding change, we all had to adjust and brainstorm how we can still help the kids we serve in our county – even when confirmed cases of abuse and neglect were on the rise in early 2020. Our communities read the horror stories, heard our pleas, and stepped up to the plate. They knew they had to do more and how significantly important it is to help children who have been abused and neglected.

We at CASA of Tarrant County are honored and fortunate to have such a giving community that wants to serve their fellow neighbors. The cost of action is far more affordable than the cost of inaction. Because of donors like you, the time kids spent in foster care that had a CASA volunteer saved Tarrant County taxpayers $3,250,000 in 2020. Can you imagine the impact we can continue to make this year, and for years to come?

Philanthropists come in all shapes, sizes, and ages – from setting up a simple lemonade stand, sharing with their employers the important work that CASA of Tarrant County does, to merely sharing our mission with friends and family. Regardless of age, our donors have made it a point to help their fellow-man and be there for the child.

The dedication our supporters have for our children are unmatched. And for that, we thank you. Because of you, we’re able to serve children in foster care – you were able to care for them, to help support them. We are eternally grateful for your commitment, generosity, and caring nature. Thank you.

Meet Board Member Courtney Bourgeois

Board Member Courtney Bourgeois says, “I was introduced to CASA at TCU, through my sorority, as it is the national beneficiary of its fundraising efforts. I participated in events throughout college that supported CASA and developed a great appreciation for what the organization does. After graduation, and having my own children, I wanted to continue supporting CASA by spreading community awareness and fundraising events.

Fort Worth has such a high child abuse rate, and we as a community can always do more. Giving these children a support system and a voice when they are at their most vulnerable is so important.”

Meet CASA Volunteer Gail Scott

What made you decide to become a CASA? I decided to become a CASA because I wanted to give back to my community in a way that centered around children and families in need. I have always wanted to do volunteer work and found that being a CASA is a perfect fit for me.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is experiencing how much love the children have to give and the ways in which they show it. Every one of my CASA children are different in their own, unique way and melt my heart every day. There is no other feeling like it. A bonus for me was the opportunity to become part of CASA's Family Finding team. Through focused and intensive research, Family Finding volunteers work to locate relatives and/or supporting adults who might be willing to step in and provide permanency or help care for kids in need. This is an important part of CASA's focus on familial bonds and cultural awareness.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. I have had so many special moments with my CASA kids but developed a special bond with an eleven year old girl who came to me a year ago. She was guarded, smart beyond her years, and had trouble just being a kid. While the world shut down because of COVID-19 we started having weekly Zoom sessions where I held virtual cooking classes (she, with adult supervision). We baked or made something different every week --- our specialty was "Baked Flaming Hot Cheeto Crusted Chicken." Slowly, I gained her trust and we became fast friends.

What is your favorite way to connect with your CASA kid(s)? My favorite way to connect with my CASA kids is in person, although sometimes a quick call or online visit works just as well, especially with my eleven year old since she is so comfortable with electronics. She loves watching puppy videos on YouTube. Technology also makes it really easy to connect with my kids when a face-to-face visit isn't possible.

Why do you think having a CASA volunteer throughout such a chaotic time is important for foster children? I think having a CASA volunteer during this chaotic time is important for foster kids because they may be experiencing added concerns about COVID-19. A child may have been unable to visit with mom/dad because someone has COVID. This is where CASA can step in and make sure someone is there to listen.

Celebrating World Gratitude Day

Throughout the past 18+ months, we have experienced such instability and unknowingness that it’s knocked us off our feet. There were times where the days were long and our anxiety was at an all time high; days when we were frustrated with countless video calls, and days when we were anxiously waiting for that familiar blue Amazon van to park in front of our house.

There were days where we’ve laughed; and days we’ve cried. But through the ups and downs, we’ve created change. Now more than ever it’s important to focus on the positive. I don’t know about you, but during one of the most difficult time of our lives, I’m leaning into the thankful season! Just in 2020, our 559 CASA volunteers were willing and able to donate 40,000 hours of their time and drive 61,000 miles to serve our children in foster care. Because of your support and dedication, we’ve reduced the time kids are in foster care by 6 fewer months.

COVID-19 may not be over, yet the progress we have made in our communities from the last 18+ months have been remarkable. It’s from people like you. Those that are wanting to give back - to do more. We have a lot of work ahead of us, but I’m grateful CASA of Tarrant County has you. Working together to provide a voice for a child in foster care may seem like a small gesture, but man oh man, it means the world to them - and to us!

The resilience and positivity we all carried to support our children in foster care was consistently steadfast. And for that, we thank you. We couldn’t have been able to continuously serve more children year after year if it weren’t for you. We are endlessly grateful for your dedication, support, and generosity. Thank you.

Supporting Children & Youth in Foster Care During the School Year

The back-to-school season can bring excitement for young people as they prepare to see their classmates again, meet new teachers and students, and explore new subjects. For youth in foster care, however, starting a new school year can feel scary and uncertain, because the odds are stacked against them when it comes to their educational success.

Children enter foster care not because of any fault of their own, but because their families are in crisis. Once they’re in foster care, they tend to face uncertainty and instability—moving from placement to placement, caseworker to caseworker and community to community. Too often, switching placements also means switching schools.

“Having to change schools causes youth in foster care to lose not only academic process, but also connections with friends and mentors. Couple this with the fact these youth are grappling with different types of trauma that can influence their learning and behavior, and it’s no wonder that they tend to have worse educational outcomes than their peers,” said Don Binicker, CEO of CASA of Tarrant County.

According to data from the 2012-13 school year:
· The percentage of students in foster care who attended 2+ schools in one school year (47%) was 6.5 times that of students not in foster care (7%).
· The percentage of students in foster care receiving special education services (24%) was 2.7 times that of students not in foster care (9%).
· The percentage of students in foster care who received out-of-school suspension (16%) was more than three times that of students not in foster care (5%).

What’s more, the pandemic has taken an emotional, physical and academic toll—for some young people this will be the first time they come back to school in person in more than a year; and all students, in foster care or otherwise, will be facing learning losses.

How can we help children and youth in foster care beat the odds and succeed? With CASA volunteers, Binnicker said.

CASA volunteers, or Court Appointed Special Advocates, are everyday people from all walks of life who are recruited and specially trained to advocate for children in foster care and provide a consistent, reliable adult presence for them during a difficult time in their life. They are appointed by a judge to one child or sibling group to advocate for their best interest in court, in school and in other settings. They get to know the child and everyone involved in their life, such as their parents and other family members, foster parents, therapists, caseworkers and teachers.

Specifically, CASA volunteers can advocate for children’s education by helping teachers, coaches, counselors and school administrators understand the child’s foster care status and the unique challenges they face as a result. They can also advocate for placement and school stability for the children they serve, because it is best for them to stay in their school of origin whenever possible. In cases where a school change is inevitable, CASA volunteers can help ensure a seamless transfer between schools and lessen the negative impact of the school move on the child.

“Students in foster care face unique challenges, but they deserve every opportunity to thrive just like their classmates,” said Binnicker. Our CASA volunteers can help by providing a consistent presence, communicating with their teachers about their situation, advocating for needed services and making sure the children they serve are set up to succeed.”

“CASA of Tarrant County urgently needs more volunteers, especially now that the back-to-school season has begun... Every child in foster care should have an advocate who is committed to helping them be successful. Become a CASA volunteer to help ensure that all children get the support they deserve both in school and beyond – giving them a better chance at a brighter future.”

For more information and to see upcoming info sessions, visit our Become an Advocate page at www.speakupforachild.org/become-an-advocate.

Meet CASA Volunteer Tracye Byars

What made you decide to become a CASA? I heard about CASA from a presentation at a Chamber of Commerce luncheon a few years back. When I heard of how they support children I decided that was something I would love to due once retired.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? I am a retired RN of 35 years. I spent most of my career working with mothers, infants and children in a variety of settings. I have volunteered with 6 Stones in Euless rehabbing homes, Mothers Milk Bank in Fort Worth, Cedar Creek Lake Area Chamber of Commerce and the Cedar Creek Lake Parrot Head Club.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? The best of advice is to ask lots of questions. There are so many layers to the system that asking questions or getting clarification will help with learning what a CASA can and cannot do.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? The most challenging is having 3 children from the same family in three different foster homes. Communicating with everyone involved is sometimes difficult.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding is having the foster child actually call ME and want to talk and want to resolve an issue. I was not always able to remove their issue but was able to give them ideas about what they could do.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case. Two of the children may be placed in a home in another state. Watching the girls interact with their cousin on a ZOOM call was very refreshing. Helping them to build a relationship with their cousin is quite rewarding.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience? The only thing I did not get to experience thus far is meeting with the children face to face. I believe that contact is crucial to developing long term relationships with others, especially CASA kids!

How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case? I connect with the children by keeping up constant contact with them. We also do FaceTime and Zoom when possible. I think the children would feel a little closer to their CASA if they could see them in person.

Meet CASA Volunteer Jennifer Roy

What made you decide to become a CASA? We have very close friends who have been foster parents for many years. Our friends had a unique sibling group with some internal abuse between siblings. It was the CASA on the case that was able to advocate for the child to ensure their safety. That CASA truly changed the life of a child and seeing it first hand inspired me to be there for another child.

What is your professional/ volunteer background? I am a travel agent and also manage our rental portfolio. I have been a CASA for the past five years and was a counselor at a pregnancy aid center prior to being a CASA.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about becoming a CASA? Being a CASA is an honor. Commit yourself knowing your support and advocacy is important. It will not always be easy, but advocating and being a voice for children that desperately need you is an invaluable experience and offers many rewards.

What has been the most challenging part of being a CASA? The challenge has been a different with each case, but I would have to say my biggest challenge is documenting visits and writing court reports. The lack of face to face interaction due to Covid-19 restrictions being a close second.

What has been the most rewarding part of being a CASA? The most rewarding part of being a CASA is seeing happy children and watching their parent(s) want to learn what they need to to be the best parent(s) for their children. Not just going through the checklist, but truly having a desire to learn and grow to be a better person for their children.

Please share a special moment with us about your advocacy work with your CASA kid or on your case
I had a case where siblings were separated by many miles for a period of time, so we met in the middle for a sibling visit. When I arrived one of them saw me on the parking lot and he ran so hard and fast, leaping into my arms. I realized right then that I was the “rock” for him as I was the only person who had been on the case from the beginning. That case lasted 3 years, but I was determined to never give up on being there for them.

Is there anything else you would like to add about yourself or the CASA experience?
Being a CASA has opened my eyes in so many ways and has been a huge growing experience for me. I am so thankful I made the decision years ago to be a voice for the voiceless.

How have you been able to connect with your CASA kids during this time of quarantine? How are you advocating for them during this time? How has it impacted the children on your case?
Since my current CASA kids are very young it has been difficult, but we FaceTime and also send video clips back and forth. In advocating for my CASA kids, I am walking beside a mother who never had a role model growing up and is learning how to take care and parent two children all by herself. I know if mom is supported well, she will be the mom her children need and deserve. I believe the quarantine has impeded my case to a degree as I believe face to face support would benefit mom and children. The human connection can not be replaced with screens, but hopefully soon that will change and we can make up for the many months of not being able to.

CAS Teri Reed says, “I feel Jennifer is deserving of the advocate spotlight because she has gone above and beyond in meeting the needs of the mother and children on her case. On Christmas day, they were out of food and Mom was out of hope. Jennifer had groceries delivered and spent hours on the phone encouraging Mom not to give up. I believe the children would have been re-removed without Jennifer's support and encouragement.”

Meet Board Member Kristy Odom

Why CASA? I’m honored to serve an organization that plays such an important role in the welfare of our community's children in critical times of need. Everything CASA staff members and volunteers do contributes to and considers the healthiest and safest outcome for the children and families we serve.

What first caused you to get involved with CASA? My awareness of the important role CASA’s advocates play in providing a voice for abused and neglected children in our community brought me to serve this great agency. There is much not witnesses and/or communicated on behalf of a child during a litigious process. The passion and commitment this agency and its volunteers exhibit is unparalleled.

What keeps you coming back every month in helping CASA? I come back every month to help CASA achieve its mission of advocating for abused and neglected children, ultimately achieving their vision of providing a CASA-trained volunteer to every child in need.

What would you say to a potential supporter? If you have a heart-felt interest in improving a child’s access to a bright and safe future, there is not better organization to support than CASA of Tarrant County. The impact of our trained volunteers positively changes the trajectory of every child served, giving them a voice throughout the process of securing their health and safety.

Why do you think it’s important for your local community to support CASA and what they do? Without CASA and its trained volunteers/advocates, too much would go unsaid, un-realized, and without the perspective of the child(ren) experiencing abuse and neglect, potentially leading to misguided resolution and continued harm to the child.

Do you want to share some encouraging words to our volunteers? The dedicated action of CASA volunteers to show up, speak up, and serve the families and children of our community directly reflects with the love in their hearts. They full-heartedly share their time, talent and treasure. It’s a privilege to serve alongside with and support these great women and men.